Eleventh hour Quote by Mark Twain
““I will conclude this chapter with a remark that I am sincerely proud to be able to make—and glad, as well, that my comrades cordially endorse it, to wit: by far the handsomest women we have seen in France were born and reared in America. I feel now like a man who has redeemed a failing reputation and shed luster upon a dimmed escutcheon, by a single just deed done at the eleventh hour. Let the curtain fall, to slow music.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Private Letter, 1900
He praises American women as superior to French, claiming personal redemption through a noble act.
In simple terms: He boasts of American women and his own restored reputation.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the impact of bold deeds.
Themes
pride
nationalism
redemption
Mood
critical
ironic
Type
literary
historical
When to use this quote
- historical commentary
- literary satire
Key Concepts
cultural comparison
personal reputation
social endorsement
Questions to Reflect On
- What does this reveal about his view of culture?
- Is the self‑praise justified?
A Different Perspective
Potential bias and exaggeration weaken credibility.
