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Cousin Quote by Edith Wharton

“The drawing-room door opened, and two high-stocked and ample-coated young men came in—two Jim Ralstons, so to speak. Delia had never before noticed how much her husband and his cousin Joe were alike: it made her feel how justified she was in always thinking of the Ralstons collectively.” quote by Edith Wharton
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““The drawing-room door opened, and two high-stocked and ample-coated young men came in—two Jim Ralstons, so to speak. Delia had never before noticed how much her husband and his cousin Joe were alike: it made her feel how justified she was in always thinking of the Ralstons collectively.””

Edith Wharton

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Age of Innocence, 1920

The narrator notes a woman’s realization that her husband and his cousin are strikingly similar, reinforcing her belief that her earlier judgments about them were justified.

In simple terms: She sees her husband and cousin as alike, confirming her thoughts.

Key Takeaway

Recognize patterns that validate your instincts.

Themes

family dynamics perception identity

Mood

contemplative introspective

Type

literary psychological

When to use this quote

  • marriage counseling
  • family gatherings
  • literary analysis
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

social observation character insight

Questions to Reflect On

  • What assumptions do we make about people based on similarities?
  • How do family re shape our perceptions?
A Different Perspective

The comparison may oversimplify complex personalities.

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