“I was sophisticated enough to know that the written word is no mirror of the writer’s character, that the amateur, though a selfless angel, may show himself a pompous ass, while the professional, a monster of ego, can convince you in a phrase that he has the innocence of a child.”
The narrator's insight that the written word does not always show the genuine nature of the person who authored it is reflected in this quote. The narrator admits that, despite their selflessness and good intentions, amateurs may come across as arrogant in their writing. Professionals, on the other hand, can use their command of the language to create a sense of innocence and purity even if they have huge egos. The phrase emphasizes the narrator's knowledge of the contrast between the writer as an individual and the identity he or she projects through writing. It implies that one's writing ability and knowledge can create a dramatic difference between their literary identity and their genuine personality. The narrator's sophistication lies in recognizing this disparity and not letting it affect their perception of the person behind the words. Additionally, the quote implies that readers should approach written works with a critical eye and not automatically assume that the writer's words accurately represent their character or intentions.
“You’ve got to let the boys be animals once in a while,” he answered my protest as we walked away. “Social life was more attractive when gentlemen defended their honor with swords and not with lawsuits.”
Dr. Prescott is reacting to Brian's objection about the violence and injuries that happened during the snowball fight between the first and second forms (groups of students) at Justin Martyr. Dr. Prescott's statement illustrates his conviction that enabling males to indulge in activities that appeal to their basic, animalistic nature on occasion is beneficial. He contends that in the past, social life was more engaging or captivating when issues were settled by human confrontations such as sword duels rather than through legal arguments. By asserting that boys should be allowed to be "animals once in a while," Dr. Prescott implies that males have a natural proclivity to participate in rough play or physical confrontations. He sees these activities as opportunities for them to learn about justice, honor, and personal responsibility. In his view, the absence of such outlets in modern society where disputes are settled through lawsuits and legal procedures has led to a loss of certain qualities that he associates with traditional forms of masculinity.
“In that moment I think I learned the real tragedy of living too long. It is not losing one's health or one's memory or even one's mind; it is losing one's dignity.”
The Narrator’s perspective and knowledge of a profound insight into the present situation is reflected in this quote. Mrs. Prescott's outburst towards her husband, expressing her frustration and bitterness about her own life is witnessed by the narrator. The narrator's reaction to this outburst prompts them to reflect on the true tragedy of living too long. The true tragedy of prolonged living, according to the narrator, is not the physical diseases or mental degeneration that commonly accompany old age. It is instead the loss of dignity that results from such situations. The narrator comments that Mrs. Prescott's outburst which is out of character for her, represents a loss of dignity and self-respect. It implies that the pains and tribulations of age might destroy one's sense of pride and identity. It also suggests that maintaining one's dignity and self-worth becomes increasingly challenging as time progresses, highlighting the emotional and psychological toll that aging can take on an individual.
“Snobbishness is a cancer in America because we pretend it’s not there and let it grow until it’s inoperable. In England it’s less dangerous because it’s out in the open.”
Dr. Prescott expresses his thoughts on snobbishness and its impact on American culture in comparison to its presence in England in this quotation. Dr. Prescott compares snobbishness to cancer, implying that it is a detrimental and prevalent disease in American society. The cancer metaphor emphasizes that snobbishness is a harmful force that if left unchecked can grow uncontrollably and become firmly embedded in culture. Dr. Prescott compares the situation in America to that of England, arguing that snobbishness is less detrimental in the British setting because snobbishness is more acknowledged and accepted. By being out in the open, it may be easier to recognize and counteract, preventing it from becoming as insidious and pervasive as it is in American society.
