Handkerchief Quote by Rupert Thomson
““While still practising law, he'd run a hearse-rental agency. Then, later, he'd bought into a handkerchief factory in Baker Park. Their most famous innovation was the funeral hankerchief, a plain white cotton handkerchief with a black border. Not long afterwards he patented the first black-edged tissue. He'd made millions, apparently, though nobody knew what he'd done with the money. His only extravagance had been to install an elevator in the house, so he could move between floors without getting out of his wheelchair. 'So what did he mean about hearing money?' Jed asked. 'It's his factory across the river. He claims he can hear the money being made.””
About This Quote
A man diversifies his ventures, from law to funeral services, seeking profit in unexpected niches, while his wealth remains opaque.
In simple terms: Entrepreneurial eccentricity and hidden wealth.
Key Takeaway
Innovation can arise from morbid markets.
Themes
entrepreneurship
innovation
wealth concealment
eccentricity
mortality
Mood
curious
ironic
mysterious
Type
anecdote
parable
observation
When to use this quote
- starting a side business while employed
- investing in niche manufacturing
- creating a novel product for funeral industry
- installing accessibility features in personal property
Key Concepts
diversification
patents
social perception
Practical Applications
- identifying underserved markets
- leveraging patents for profit
Questions to Reflect On
- What motivates someone to invest in morbid industries?
- How does secrecy affect perception of success?
