Skip to content

Question Quote by Henry James

“So far had Douglas presented his picture when someone put a question. "And what did the former governess die of? – of so much respectability?" Our friend's answer was prompt. "That will come out. I don't anticipate.” quote by Henry James
Download Open image
““So far had Douglas presented his picture when someone put a question. "And what did the former governess die of? – of so much respectability?" Our friend's answer was prompt. "That will come out. I don't anticipate.””

Henry James

About This Quote

Source Short Story: “The Figure in the Carpet” (1905)

A character dismisses a question about a death, implying that some truths are withheld or not anticipated.

In simple terms: Some answers are deliberately left unknown.

Key Takeaway

Accept uncertainty and seek deeper insight.

Themes

mystery communication anticipation

Mood

thoughtful introspective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • friendship
  • academic inquiry
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

literary analysis human behavior

Questions to Reflect On

  • What truths are we avoiding?
  • Why do we sometimes withhold answers?
A Different Perspective

Avoid assuming all questions have ready answers.

3.8 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Henry James

Explore all 571 Henry James quotes

More Question quotes

Browse all 3,177 Question quotes