The prostitute became uncomfortable -- as if 'talk' were in a category of aberrant behavior, short of which she drew the line. 'You have to pay more for that,' the redhead said. 'Talk can go on for a long time.'

The prostitute became uncomfortable -- as if 'talk' were in a category of aberrant behavior, short of which she drew the line. 'You have to pay more for that,' the redhead said. 'Talk can go on for a long time.'

📖 John Irving

🌍 American  |  👨‍💼 Novelist

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This quote offers a compelling reflection on societal perceptions of intimacy, communication, and commodification. The prostitute's discomfort signifies how certain behaviors—like meaningful conversation—are sometimes seen as extraneous or even suspicious within contexts that prioritize transactional exchanges. Her reaction suggests that talking, which is often an essential part of human connection, is being reduced to a commodity, something that might require an extra fee or be deemed unnecessary for the transaction. The redhead's remark emphasizes the transactional nature of the setting, where even conversation can be monetized or valued differently. It points out the boundaries of permissible interactions in those environments, highlighting a broader commentary on how society often narrows the scope of intimacy to physical acts and commodifies emotional exchanges. The phrase 'talk can go on for a long time' may imply the potential depth and complexity that genuine communication offers, contrasting sharply with the superficial or transactional focus typical in certain environments. It raises questions about how modern society treats communication and connection—sometimes viewing them as burdens, accessories, or commodities rather than fundamental human needs. Ultimately, this quote reveals the tensions between authentic human interaction and societal or commercial frameworks that diminish the value of such connections, revealing the complex layers of human behavior, societal expectations, and the commodification of intimacy within certain contexts. This reflection invites us to consider how easily society can detach the human from the transactional, and what is lost when meaningful communication is considered an add-on rather than a core component of human relationships.

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August 10, 2025

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