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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…” quote by Elizabeth Bowen
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“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.”

Elizabeth Bowen

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.

Key Takeaway

Find contentment in alone time.

Themes

solitude joy paradox

Mood

contemplative melancholic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • travel
  • personal reflection
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

Existentialism psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does happy solitude mean to you?
  • How do you share solitary joy?
A Different Perspective

Alone may feel lonely for some.

3.6 out of 5 (3 ratings)

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