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Flower Quote by Harper Lee

“Somehow, it was hotter then: a black dog suffered on a summer's day; bony mules hitched to Hoover carts flicked flies in the sweltering shade of the live oaks on the square. Men's stiff collars wilted by nine in the morning. Ladies bathed before noon, after their three o'clock naps, and by…” quote by Harper Lee
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““Somehow, it was hotter then: a black dog suffered on a summer's day; bony mules hitched to Hoover carts flicked flies in the sweltering shade of the live oaks on the square. Men's stiff collars wilted by nine in the morning. Ladies bathed before noon, after their three o'clock naps, and by nightfall were like soft teacakes with frostings of sweat and sweet talcum.””

Harper Lee

About This Quote

The passage paints a vivid, oppressive summer scene, describing how heat affects people’s attire, behavior, and environment, highlighting social norms and physical discomfort.

In simple terms: Summer heat makes people uncomfortable and changes behavior.

Key Takeaway

Notice how environment shapes social habits.

Themes

social observation environment human behavior

Mood

observational descriptive

Type

literary descriptive

When to use this quote

  • urban summer life
  • historical setting
  • daily routines

Key Concepts

heat social norms comfort

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does extreme weather influence social customs?
  • What does this description reveal about gender roles of the time?
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