Skip to content

Last day Quote by JD Salinger

“But my point, Mattie—if I have a point, Mattie—is this: kind of try to live up to the best that’s in you. If you give your word to people, let them know that they’re getting the word of the best. If you room with some dopey girl at college, try to make her less dopey. If you’re standing outside a…” quote by JD Salinger
Download Open image
““But my point, Mattie—if I have a point, Mattie—is this: kind of try to live up to the best that’s in you. If you give your word to people, let them know that they’re getting the word of the best. If you room with some dopey girl at college, try to make her less dopey. If you’re standing outside a theater and some old gal comes up selling gum, give her a buck if you’ve got a buck — but only if you can do it without patronizing her. That’s the trick, baby.' -Last Day of the Last Furlough””

JD Salinger

About This Quote

Source Novel: Last Day of the Last Furlough (short story)

Encourages living up to one's best, giving generously without condescension, and uplifting others.

In simple terms: Be your best self; help others modestly.

Key Takeaway

Act with integrity and humility.

Themes

integrity generosity self‑improvement

Mood

thoughtful practical

Type

inspirational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • volunteering
  • peer mentorship
  • small acts of kindness
  • personal goal setting

Key Concepts

ethical behavior social responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you give without seeming condescending?
  • When did you uplift someone modestly?
A Different Perspective

Risk of appearing patronizing if not sincere.

2.7 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by JD Salinger

Explore all 5 JD Salinger quotes

More Last day quotes

Browse all 583 Last day quotes