Coffee cup Quote by John Cheever
““His stepmother -wearing a nightgown for comfort and a flowered hat for looks- had spent her days sitting in their parlor window in Baltimore drinking sherry out of a coffee cup.””
About This Quote
Source Short story: Unspecified, early 20th century
A stepmother seeks comfort and appearance, spending idle time in a parlor window while drinking sherry.
In simple terms: She enjoys comfort and style while watching life pass.
Key Takeaway
Find moments of comfort in routine.
Themes
comfort
appearance
routine
social observation
Mood
contemplative
observational
Type
literary
character study
When to use this quote
- parlor scene
- daily ritual
- social façade
Key Concepts
gender roles
class
leisure
urban life
Questions to Reflect On
- What does her attire reveal about her priorities?
- How does setting reflect her inner state?
A Different Perspective
May mask deeper dissatisfaction.
![“[On living in New York City:] I'm oblivious to everything. I just don't notice anything. I sat in a coffee shop, drank half a cup of coffee before I noticed there was lipstick on the cup. There was wadded-up gum and lipstick on the napkin. I must have been sitting on that woman's lap for an hour.” quote by Laura Kightlinger](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f87/laura-kightlinger-24538_cities_on-living-in-new-york-city-i-m-oblivious_55113.jpg)
