Ashtray Quote by Gary K. Wolf
““She reached into an alabaster box and pulled out a violet cigarette that also exactly matched her eyes. Some people just don't know when to quit. She lit her colored coffin nail, set it into an ashtray, and promptly forgot about it. It smoldered into eternity silently begging for one more touch from her gorgeous lips.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Adventures of the Stainless Steel Rat by Harry Harrison, 1961
A vivid, metaphorical scene showing a woman’s self‑destructive habit, juxtaposing beauty with decay, and the fleeting nature of indulgence.
In simple terms: A woman’s habit is both beautiful and harmful, leading to endless longing.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and break harmful patterns.
Themes
self‑destruction
beauty
addiction
longing
Mood
melancholic
reflective
poetic
Type
literary
descriptive
metaphorical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- addiction recovery
- creative writing
- visual arts
Key Concepts
metaphor
symbolism
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the violet cigarette symbolize for you?
- How can you transform a harmful habit into a positive ritual?
A Different Perspective
The allure of the habit may mask its danger, making change harder.
