Appearance Quote by Robert Louis Stevenson
“He is not easy to describe. There is something wrong with his appearance; something displeasing, something downright detestable. I never saw a man I so disliked, and yet I scarce know why. He must be deformed somewhere; he gives a strong feeling of deformity, although I couldn’t specify the point. He’s an extraordinary-looking man, and yet I really can name nothing out of the way. No sir; I can make no hand of it; I can’t describe him. And it’s not want of memory; for I declare I can see him this moment.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, 1886
The narrator struggles to articulate an instinctual revulsion toward a man's appearance, highlighting the difficulty of describing vague, unsettling feelings.
In simple terms: He feels strong dislike without knowing why.
Acknowledge vague discomfort and seek deeper understanding.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- first impressions
- social interactions
- character analysis
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What specific cues trigger your aversion?
- How might you explore the source of this feeling?
The description may be influenced by personal prejudice rather than objective observation.