Alas Quote by Ethel Smyth
“I loved dancing with a delirious 'I wish I could die' passion, especially when the music appealed to me ... but alas! only one in ten partners had any notion of time, and what made it worse, the nine were always behind, never before the beat. ... Sometimes I would firmly seize smaller, lighter partners by the scruff of the neck, so to speak, and whirl them along in the way they should go, but I saw they were not enjoying themselves, and oddly enough I wanted these wretches to like dancing with me.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Unknown, possibly autobiographical; null
A dancer struggles with partners who lack timing, trying to control them, yet desires their enjoyment.
In simple terms: Dancer wants partners to sync and enjoy.
Key Takeaway
Seek partners who share rhythm and enthusiasm.
Themes
dance
control
empathy
frustration
Mood
frustrated
hopeful
Type
reflective
observational
When to use this quote
- social events
- dance classes
- team projects
- performance rehearsals
Key Concepts
timing
leadership
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you foster shared rhythm without dominating?
- What does true enjoyment look like for others?
A Different Perspective
Not all partners can be forced into sync; mutual enjoyment requires willingness.
