Deck Quote by Elizabeth Bowen
“Karen, her elbows folded on the deck-rail, wanted to share with someone the pleasure in being alone: this is the paradox of any happy solitude. She had never landed at Cork, so this hill and that hill beyond were as unexpected as pictures at which you say "Oh look!" Nobody was beside her to share the moment, which would have been imperfect with anyone else there.”
About This Quote
Source Short story: "The Last September", 1929
A solitary moment on a hill becomes a paradoxical joy, highlighting the pleasure of being alone yet sharing it.
In simple terms: Solitude can be joyful and paradoxical.
Find contentment in alone time.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- travel
- personal reflection
- creative writing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does happy solitude mean to you?
- How do you share solitary joy?
Alone may feel lonely for some.