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Boys Quote by Hector Hugh Munro

“I am not collecting copies of the cheaper editions of Omar Khayyám. I gave the last four that I received to the lift-boy, and I like to think of him reading them, with FitzGerald's notes, to his aged mother. Lift-boys always have aged mothers; shows such nice feeling on their part, I think.” quote by Hector Hugh Munro
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“I am not collecting copies of the cheaper editions of Omar Khayyám. I gave the last four that I received to the lift-boy, and I like to think of him reading them, with FitzGerald's notes, to his aged mother. Lift-boys always have aged mothers; shows such nice feeling on their part, I think.”

Hector Hugh Munro

About This Quote

Source Short Story: "The Lift" by S. T. A. (Hector Hugh Munro), 1912

The narrator gives away cheap copies of poetry to a lift-boy, imagining him sharing them with his elderly mother, highlighting kindness and empathy for ordinary people.

In simple terms: Giving books to a lift-boy shows compassion and imagination.

Key Takeaway

Share small kindnesses with strangers.

Themes

kindness empathy everyday humanity imagination generosity

Mood

warm reflective thoughtful

Type

narrative humanist empathetic

When to use this quote

  • urban life
  • gift giving
  • intergenerational bonds
  • quiet generosity

Key Concepts

social connection literary charity human dignity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you imagine the impact of small gifts on strangers?
  • How can empathy be expressed in daily routines?
A Different Perspective

Such gestures may be seen as patronizing if not genuine.

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