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Beauty Quote by James Thurber

“The Princess Saralinda was tall, with freesias in her dark hair, and she wore serenity brightly like the rainbow. It was not easy to tell her mouth from the rose, or her brow from the white lilac. Her voice was faraway music, and her eyes were candles burning on a tranquil night. She moved across…” quote by James Thurber
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““The Princess Saralinda was tall, with freesias in her dark hair, and she wore serenity brightly like the rainbow. It was not easy to tell her mouth from the rose, or her brow from the white lilac. Her voice was faraway music, and her eyes were candles burning on a tranquil night. She moved across the room like wind in violets, and her laughter sparkled on the air, which, from her presence, gained a faint and undreamed fragrance. The Prince was frozen by her beauty, but not cold, and the Duke, who was cold but not frozen, held up the palms of his gloves, as if she were a fire at which to warm his hands.””

James Thurber

About This Quote

Source Short story: “The Princess Saralinda”, published in The New Yorker, 1935

A vivid, lyrical description of a princess whose beauty and presence enchant and warm those around her, contrasting with the coldness of others.

In simple terms: A beautiful woman captivates and warms others despite surrounding coldness.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate the warmth beauty bring.

Themes

beauty enchantment contrast warmth coldness

Mood

awe warmth admiration

Type

descriptive poetic romantic

When to use this quote

  • social gatherings
  • first impressions
  • artistic inspiration

Key Concepts

romanticism imagery character contrast

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does beauty affect interpersonal dynamics?
  • Can warmth replace genuine connection?
A Different Perspective

The description may idealize and overlook deeper character traits.

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