A party at which the guests are all of the beautiful persuasion tends to be dull indeed, as they have no conversation that does not pertain to themselves. A successful gathering requires a number of the ill-favored but clever. The beautiful are but ornaments-desirable, but dispensable.
The quote reflects on the dynamics of social gatherings, suggesting that events filled solely with beautiful people can lack depth and engaging conversation. The beauty of the guests might be aesthetically pleasing, but their tendency to focus on themselves can lead to dull interactions.
In contrast, the author asserts that inviting individuals who are not conventionally attractive yet possess cleverness enriches the atmosphere. Such people contribute to meaningful discussions, making the gathering more enjoyable and memorable. Therefore, beauty is seen as secondary to intellect and personality in fostering a vibrant social experience.
