“Slattern! What a wonderful new word. 'Slattern,' I murmur appreciatively to Patricia.'Yes, slattern,' Bunty says firmly. 'That's what she is.''Not a slut like you then?' Patricia says very quietly. Loud enough to be heard, but too quiet to be believed.”
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Examples of Usage for "Slattern"
The word "slattern," often used to describe a woman who is dirty or untidy in her appearance, carries a certain historical weight and invokes imagery of a particular kind of character. Here are some examples of how one might use "slattern" in various contexts:
Literary Depiction
In the novel, the protagonist encounters a slattern in the alley, her clothes tattered and her hair unkempt, which starkly contrasts with the meticulously groomed society women she usually interacts with.Historical Context
The author describes the slatternly lifestyle of women during the Victorian era, highlighting societal judgments that labeled them as unfit due to their disheveled appearances and lack of domestic skills.Contemporary Commentary
After seeing the chaotic living conditions of the house she rented for the summer, Jane sighed, “This place looks like it belongs to a slattern. I can’t believe I paid so much for this mess.”Character Development
The film portrays the slattern as a misunderstood heroine, who, despite her outward appearance, demonstrates profound wisdom and compassion that challenges societal norms.Social Critique
During the discussion on gender double standards, the speaker notes, “Why is it that a man's disheveled looks are often seen as rugged, while a woman's untidiness brands her a slattern?”
These examples demonstrate the versatility and impact of the term "slattern" in various literary and conversational contexts.
Quote Analysis: Understanding Complex Relationships and Language
In this excerpt from Kate Atkinson, the exchange between characters reveals layers of meaning and social commentary through the use of language. The word "slattern," which emerges as a focal point, serves not just as an insult but also as a catalyst for further exploration of social judgments and female relationships.
The initial reaction to the word "slattern" illustrates a moment of discovery and appreciation for language. The protagonist seems to revel in the newness of the term, suggesting a curiosity or intellectual engagement with vocabulary that describes social behaviors. This denotes a clash between the sophistication of language and the rawness of personal relationships.
As the dialogue progresses, Bunty's firm declaration reinforces her perspective on the woman in question, emphasizing a strict moral judgment. The use of "slattern" here implies a connotation of untidiness or immorality, indicating how women's identities are often reduced to their sexual behavior and appearance within social discourse.
Patricia's quiet retort, “Not a slut like you then?” introduces a powerful counter-narrative. This line, though delivered quietly, carries enough weight to reveal discomfort and underlying tension. The dynamic shifts as it highlights how women may turn the labels used against them back towards one another, creating a space where silenced truths can be articulated.
The phrase "Loud enough to be heard, but too quiet to be believed" encapsulates a deep irony. While Patricia's words suggest the possibility of rebellion against societal definitions, the intonation and context imply that her words might go unheard or unacknowledged in the broader conversation. It underscores the complexities of female solidarity and the competitive nature of their relationships influenced by societal norms.
Overall, this paragraph captures a moment rife with implications about language, identity, and the societal structures that govern female interaction. It invites the reader to reflect on how words can both empower and constrain, revealing the intricacies of human relationships marked by judgment and misunderstanding.
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“What if we had a chance to do it again and again, until we finally did get it right? Wouldn't that be wonderful?”