Skip to content

Buried Quote by Paul Scott

“Upon retirement from the civil or the military some of them came to Pankot – not to die (although they did – and were buried in the churchyard of St John’s – C of E – or St Edward’s – RC) but to enjoy their remaining years in a place that was peculiarly Indian but very much their own, and where…” quote by Paul Scott
Download Open image
““Upon retirement from the civil or the military some of them came to Pankot – not to die (although they did – and were buried in the churchyard of St John’s – C of E – or St Edward’s – RC) but to enjoy their remaining years in a place that was peculiarly Indian but very much their own, and where servants were cheap, and English flowers could be grown (sometimes spectacularly) in the gardens, and life take on the serenity of fulfilment, of duty done without the depression of going home wondering what it had been done for.””

Paul Scott

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Jewel in the Crown, 1966

Retirees find peace in a familiar yet exotic setting, balancing duty and personal fulfillment despite lingering colonial ties.

In simple terms: Retirement can be both restful and reflective.

Key Takeaway

Seek meaningful rest after service.

Themes

retirement colonial legacy fulfillment

Mood

reflective bittersweet

Type

literary historical

When to use this quote

  • travel planning
  • community building
  • legacy projects

Key Concepts

post‑colonial identity exile cultural hybridity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “home” mean after a life of service?
  • How do you honor local cultures while living abroad?
A Different Perspective

Nostalgia may mask underlying cultural tensions.

4.0 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Paul Scott

Explore all 80 Paul Scott quotes

More Buried quotes

Browse all 1,295 Buried quotes