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Crying Quote by Halldór Laxness

“He disliked tears, he has always disliked tears, had never understood them, and sometimes lost his temper over them; but he felt now that he could not rebuke this flower of his life, this innocent form, water and youth are inseparable companions, and besides it's Christmas night. So he merely…” quote by Halldór Laxness
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““He disliked tears, he has always disliked tears, had never understood them, and sometimes lost his temper over them; but he felt now that he could not rebuke this flower of his life, this innocent form, water and youth are inseparable companions, and besides it's Christmas night. So he merely hinted again that she must have forgotten again that he had promised to build her a house.””

Halldór Laxness

About This Quote

Source Novel: “Independent People,” 1940

Describes a man’s conflicted feelings toward tears, youth, and love, set against a Christmas night, revealing deep emotional complexity.

In simple terms: He struggles with emotions and promises during a festive night.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge inner conflicts and honor commitments.

Themes

emotion love promise nostalgia seasonal setting

Mood

melancholic introspective poetic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • literary analysis
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

psychological depth human vulnerability narrative tension

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do cultural expectations shape emotional expression?
  • What role does nostalgia play in decision‑making?
A Different Perspective

Complex emotions can be hard to articulate, leading to misunderstanding.

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