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Elevator Quote by Douglas Adams

“The first thing they saw on leaving the elevator was a long concrete wall with over fifty doors in it offering lavatory facilities for all of fifty major life forms. Nevertheless, like every parking lot in the Galaxy throughout the entire history of parking lots, this parking lot smelled…” quote by Douglas Adams
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““The first thing they saw on leaving the elevator was a long concrete wall with over fifty doors in it offering lavatory facilities for all of fifty major life forms. Nevertheless, like every parking lot in the Galaxy throughout the entire history of parking lots, this parking lot smelled predominantly of impatience.””

Douglas Adams

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, 1979

A futuristic parking garage is described as a massive, impersonal space that reflects universal impatience.

In simple terms: A huge parking lot shows universal impatience.

Key Takeaway

Recognize impatience in shared spaces.

Themes

humor science fiction urban life

Mood

wry reflective

Type

literary satirical

When to use this quote

  • airport terminals
  • shopping malls
  • online queues
  • traffic jams

Key Concepts

absurdism social commentary architecture

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does the parking lot symbolize?
  • How does impatience affect design?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may overlook genuine needs for order.

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