Said Darcy Quote by Jane Austen
““Perhaps,' said Darcy, 'I should have judged better, had I sought an introduction, but I am ill qualified to recommend myself to strangers.' 'Shall we ask your cousin the reason of this?' said Elizabeth, still addressing Colonel Fitzwilliam. 'Shall we ask him why a man of sense and education, and who has lived in the world, is ill qualified to recommend himself to strangers?' 'I can answer your question,' said Fitzwilliam, 'without applying to him. It is because he will not give himself the trouble.' 'I certainly have not the talent which some people possess,' said Darcy, 'of conversing easily with those I have never seen before. I cannot catch their tone of conversation, or appear interested in their concerns, as I often see done.' 'My fingers,' said Elizabeth, 'do not move over this instrument in the masterly manner which I see so many women's do. They have not the same force or rapidity, and do not produce the same expression. But then I have always supposed it to be my own fault -- because I would not take the trouble of practising. It is not that I do not believe my fingers as capable as any other woman's of superior execution.' Darcy smiled, and said, 'You are perfectly right. You have employed your time much better. No one admitted to the privilege of hearing you, can think any thing wanting. We neither of us perform to strangers.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen, 1813
Darcy acknowledges his social awkwardness and lack of effort in engaging strangers, highlighting self‑awareness and the value of practice.
In simple terms: Darcy admits he struggles with strangers due to lack of effort.
Practice social skills to improve confidence.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- first meetings
- networking events
- public speaking
- dating
- professional introductions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What steps can you take to practice social interaction?
- How does class affect willingness to engage?
Effort alone may not overcome deep‑seated insecurities.