America Quote by E. B. White
“Why is it, do you suppose, that an Englishman is unhappy until he has explained America?”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The New Yorker, 1940s
An Englishman feels compelled to rationalize America to find personal satisfaction.
In simple terms: Englishmen seek meaning through explaining America.
Key Takeaway
Reflect on why you explain things.
Themes
identity
explanation
culture
discontent
Mood
reflective
curious
Type
literary
observational
When to use this quote
- travel writing
- personal essays
- cultural critique
Key Concepts
postcolonialism
self‑validation
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do you feel the need to explain others?
- What does explaining achieve?
A Different Perspective
May overlook deeper personal issues.
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![“The fact that an Englishman has an Argentinian as an idol is very rare. I keep watching my [title-winning] goal against QPR and every time I get more emotional. My plan is to stay here because I'm convinced Manchester City will be at the same level as Real Madrid and Barcelona.” quote by Sergio Aguero](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/96f/sergio-aguero-29061_barcelona_the-fact-that-an-englishman-has-an-argen_16038.jpg)
![“I'll smoke, I'll cough, I'll get the tumors, I'll die, deal? Thank you America. [salutes]” quote by Bill Hicks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3d2/bill-hicks-970_america_i-ll-smoke-i-ll-cough-i-ll-get-the-tumor_655.jpg)
