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Work Depends Quote by Irving Stone

“'I saw the light of your room through the bottom of the door,' said vice-admiral, 'the watchman told me he had seen you in the yard four o'clock in the morning. How many hours per day do you work?' 'It depends. Sometimes eighteen, sometimes twenty.' 'Twenty!' Uncle Jan shook his head, his face…” quote by Irving Stone
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““ 'I saw the light of your room through the bottom of the door,' said vice-admiral, 'the watchman told me he had seen you in the yard four o'clock in the morning. How many hours per day do you work?' 'It depends. Sometimes eighteen, sometimes twenty.' 'Twenty!' Uncle Jan shook his head, his face became even more concerned. Vice-admiral could not believe that there would be such a thickhead in Van Gogh family.””

Irving Stone

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Agony and the Ecstasy, Irving Stone, 1961

A vice-admiral questions a man about his extreme work hours, highlighting a cultural clash and concern over excessive labor.

In simple terms: The dialogue shows worry about overwork and cultural misunderstanding.

Key Takeaway

Beware of glorifying excessive work hours.

Themes

work culture misunderstanding family health

Mood

concerned serious reflective

Type

dialogue literary cautionary

When to use this quote

  • corporate environments
  • military life
  • family gatherings

Key Concepts

labor expectations cultural clash family dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is long work always a sign of dedication?
  • How can families address unhealthy work habits?
A Different Perspective

Excessive work can lead to burnout and strained relationships.

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