“Whenever I am rested and feeling good
I can’t help being frivolous.”
--“The Begum of Bengal,” speech, 1907
Initially, I think that this quote’s short length caught my
eye. I always like the quotes that are short and simple because it makes them
easy to remember. Although it
may appear very simple, I think that this little wisdom is something that is relatable and applicable to the reader. Everyone has had a time
when they have just felt really good. There wasn’t any specific reason you just
kind of felt that way. I think that Twain’s making a point to recognize these
moments; moments that could otherwise be easily passed by unrecognized. He is able to capture that inexplicable
feeling and remind the listener of this feeling in all it’s complexity in just
a simple little passage. The tone of this quote is very casual, almost childish which helps bring the reader or listener into the moment that Twain is referring to. It is an honest and succinct message.
The vernacular in this passage also contributes a sort of
complexity to an otherwise simply stated quote. Frivolous. This quote had a
definite advantage in being chosen as my favorite because this has always been
one of those words that I have just really liked for no particular
reason. In this passage, however, I
think that it really adds to the carefree vibe. It makes the speaker sound
light-hearted and you can tell that they really do feel good. Although Mark
Twain’s life was full of both profound and simple truths, this one just really
spoke to me personally-especially as summer approaches. This was just one of
those quotes that I read a few times, thought about and immediately marked it
with the intention of looking back to remember it. One of those things that you
just would like to remember as you’re walking through TCU’s beautiful campus
after you finish your last final exam as you look around at the blooming
flowers and blue sky and feel like you could do anything you wanted. A feel
good, memorable quote.
Elle,
ReplyDeleteI really like the wisdom quote you selected from this book. It has a good message and I think many people do take for granted these often fleeting moments of pure bliss in life. I also think that this bit of wisdom is very short and sweet as well as eloquently stated which makes it stand out among the rest.
Kimberly
Elle,
ReplyDeleteI agreed with your perspective on this quote. Frivolous is an awesome word to use, and it's totally applicable since summer is getting so much closer! Twain does make a great point of appreciating ordinary moments when everything's calm by being able to have fun and be carefree. This quote was one of the more lighthearted ones in the whole bunch, so I appreciate that you chose one of the quotes that was a feel-good quote instead of a cynical human nature quote (which were kind of everywhere throughout the book...). Good choice!
Madeline
Elle,
ReplyDeleteThis is a great quote. Twain depicts an attitude towards life that I think we all could benefit from having. Sometimes we need to be reminded that we should take the time to just enjoy all of the little happy things in life. I also agree with you on liking short simple quotes. They can carry just as much meaning as any long saying and they stick with you easily.
Rachel
Elle,
ReplyDeleteI really loved this quote that you chose. It is actually one of my favorites as well. The way that you viewed it is similar to mine, that there doesn't have to be a reason to feel joy. There are just times that we get to enjoy life in all of its beauties. Frivolous is just a fantastic word in and of itself. It just depicts happiness, and we could all use a little more happiness.
Overall, I really enjoyed your post!
Lauren