Chagrin Quote by Nella Larsen
““The chagrin which she had felt at her first failure to subvert this latest manifestation of his discontent had receded, leaving in its wake an uneasy depression. Were all her efforts, all her labors, to make up to him that one loss, all her silent striving to prove to him that her way had been best, all her ministrations to him, all her outward sinking of self, to count for nothing in some unperceived sudden moment? And if so, what, then, would be the consequences to the boys? To her? To Brian himself? Endless searching had brought no answer to these questions. There was only an intense weariness from their shuttlelike procession in her brain.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Passing by Nella Larsen, 1929
The narrator feels deep disappointment after failing to influence a man, questioning the value of her efforts and fearing consequences for herself and others, leading to mental exhaustion.
In simple terms: She doubts her work matters after a failure, feeling exhausted.
Key Takeaway
Reassess motivations and seek self‑validation.
Themes
disappointment
self‑doubt
consequences
exhaustion
Mood
melancholic
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- career decisions
- family dynamics
- mental health
Key Concepts
existential angst
gender dynamics
racial identity
Questions to Reflect On
- What truly drives your efforts?
- How can you find meaning beyond external approval?
A Different Perspective
The quote reflects personal turmoil, not universal truth about all failures.
