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Sooner or later Quote by Raymond Chandler

“I had been stalking the bluebottle fly for five minutes, waiting for him to sit down. He didn't want to sit down. He just wanted to do wing-overs and sing the prologue to Pagliacci. I had the fly swatter poised in midair and I was all set. There was a patch of bright sunlight on the corner of the…” quote by Raymond Chandler
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““I had been stalking the bluebottle fly for five minutes, waiting for him to sit down. He didn't want to sit down. He just wanted to do wing-overs and sing the prologue to Pagliacci. I had the fly swatter poised in midair and I was all set. There was a patch of bright sunlight on the corner of the desk and I knew that sooner or later that was where he was going to light. But when he did, I didn't even see him at first. The buzzing stopped and there he was. And then the phone rang.””

Raymond Chandler

About This Quote

A moment of anticipation and focus on a small target is shattered by an unexpected interruption, highlighting how plans can be derailed by mundane realities.

In simple terms: Unexpected interruption disrupts focused pursuit.

Key Takeaway

Plans are fragile.

Themes

Patience Distraction Nature Humor Irony

Mood

Wry Observational Playful

Type

Anecdote Narrative

When to use this quote

  • Scientific observation
  • Creative writing
  • Everyday life
  • Work environment

Key Concepts

Observation Timing Unexpected events

Practical Applications

  • Storytelling
  • Illustrating focus and disruption

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does the fly symbolize?
  • How do interruptions shape our actions?
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