1932 Quote by Mary Butts
““For some days before, as well as for some nights, Vincent had observed a shadow about the quays. First because it had tried to sell him an obscene book, then because it tried to sell André an obscene book, then because it tried to sell everybody an obscene book.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Death of the Heart by Mary Butts, 1928
A character observes a recurring, unsettling presence that tries to corrupt by offering obscene material.
In simple terms: A shady figure keeps trying to sell indecent books.
Key Takeaway
Beware of repeated temptations that erode integrity.
Themes
corruption
temptation
morality
Mood
reflective
cautionary
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- night watches
- street markets
- personal encounters
Key Concepts
manipulation
literary symbolism
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the “shadow” symbolize for you?
- How do repeated temptations affect moral choices?
A Different Perspective
The passage may be metaphorical, limiting literal interpretation.
![“But alas! Firemen [stoking a ship] are not what they were. The gor-blimey firemen of the coal-burning days must, I think, be a diminishing species and in these degenerate times, when ships burn oil, the firemen is rapidly becoming a perfect gentleman, which is a pity …. Yet all was not quite lost…” quote by Ommanney F. D](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/538/f-d-ommanney-165851_1932_but-alas-firemen-stoking-a-ship-are-not_2184474.jpg)
