You young men have too many jokes. When there are no jokes you've nothing left.
In Henry James' "The Portrait of a Lady," the character's remark about young men having too many jokes points to a deeper critique of their reliance on humor as a coping mechanism. This notion suggests that when levity is stripped away, individuals may find themselves lacking substance or depth. Jokes often serve to mask vulnerabilities or discomfort, highlighting a generational tendency to avoid serious matters through humor.
The quote implies that a life centered on jest can lead to emptiness, emphasizing the importance of authentic connections and serious reflection. In a world filled with distractions and superficial interactions, the author seems to advocate for sincerity as a pathway to true understanding and fulfillment.
Rate the Quote
User Reviews
Other quotes in book quote
All the things you can talk about in anyone's work are the things that are least important.
Race of Cain, ascend to heaven, And cast God down upon the earth!
