Skip to content

Approach Quote by J. P. Donleavy

“Food Throwers: Begun usually by estranged couples, once this victual flinging starts, everyone will do it...Should your dinner party have become an out of control concussion match with opponents catapulting croutons and petits pois across the mahogany, don't fight it, go with it. And when you have…” quote by J. P. Donleavy
Download Open image
“Food Throwers: Begun usually by estranged couples, once this victual flinging starts, everyone will do it...Should your dinner party have become an out of control concussion match with opponents catapulting croutons and petits pois across the mahogany, don't fight it, go with it. And when you have the desire to quell the uprising approach the original perpetrator from behind. There, slowly crown her with the contents of the fresh fruit salad bowl. But be warned. Although this immobilizes and rivits everyone's attention it also gives them new ideas.”

J. P. Donleavy

About This Quote

When chaos erupts, embracing it and redirecting it creatively can defuse tension and inspire new ideas.

In simple terms: Go with the chaos and turn it into something new.

Key Takeaway

Use humor to manage disorder.

Themes

conflict humor creativity social dynamics

Mood

playful ironic

Type

anecdotal advice

When to use this quote

  • formal dinner
  • family gatherings
  • public events

Key Concepts

improvisation social contagion group behavior

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you channel disruptive energy positively?
  • When is it better to intervene?
A Different Perspective

Escalation may cause harm if not controlled.

3.5 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by J. P. Donleavy

Explore all 18 J. P. Donleavy quotes

More Approach quotes

Browse all 3,949 Approach quotes