“You look very handsome, Papa," I say.The twinkle is back in his eyes. "Smoke and mirrors," he says with a wink. "Smoke and mirrors.”
Explore This Quote Further
Analysis
In this quote from Libba Bray, the speaker compliments her father, calling him handsome. His response, "Smoke and mirrors," reveals a sense of humility and playfulness. By saying his good looks are just an illusion created by smoke and mirrors, he is downplaying the compliment and poking fun at himself. This moment showcases a lighthearted and loving dynamic between the speaker and her father. It also suggests a sense of self-awareness and not taking oneself too seriously.
The Illusion of Appearance: Modern Relevance
In this quote from Libba Bray's novel, the father character downplays his appearance as merely smoke and mirrors, suggesting that his outward appearance may not be an accurate reflection of who he really is. In today's society, where social media and image-consciousness are prevalent, this concept can be seen as relevant. People often project an idealized version of themselves online, creating an illusion that may not match reality. It serves as a reminder to look beyond the surface and not judge others solely based on their appearance or online persona.
Compliments and Humor
In this charming exchange from a novel by Libba Bray, a character receives a compliment and responds with a lighthearted joke. The phrase "smoke and mirrors" is used humorously to downplay or deflect the compliment.
Reflection Questions:
This quote from Libba Bray's novel prompts us to consider the idea of perception versus reality, particularly in terms of self-image and presentation. It challenges us to think about the ways in which people present themselves to the world and how that may differ from their true selves. Here are some reflection questions to consider:
How do you interpret the phrase "smoke and mirrors" in this context? What does it suggest about the character's self-perception?
Do you think the character is being genuine when they dismiss the compliment with "smoke and mirrors," or are they masking deeper insecurities?
In what ways do people use "smoke and mirrors" in their own lives to create an image or facade? How does this align with or contradict their true selves?
How do you think self-perception and presentation to others influence one's overall sense of identity and confidence?
Reflect on a time when you or someone you know used "smoke and mirrors" to present themselves in a certain way. What motivated this behavior, and what impact did it have on them or others?
Similar quotes
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“I am not asking you to understand, Papa. I'm asking for you to accept.""Accept what?"Me. Accept me, Papa. "My decision to live my own life as I see fit."It is so quiet that I suddenly wish I could take it back. Sorry, it was only a terrible joke. I should like a new dress, please.”
“But...you could have whatever you wished.""Exactly," he says, nuzzling my neck."But," I say, "you could turn stones to rubies or ride in a fine gentleman's carriage."Kartik puts his hands on either side of my face. "To each his own magic," he says and kisses me again.”
“He smiles sadly. "Now I know my destiny.""What is it?""This."He draws me in to him in a kiss. His lips are warm. He pulls me tighter in his embrace. The roots sigh and release their hold on my waist and the wound in my side is healed. "Kartik," I cry, kissing his cheeks. "It's let me go.""That's good," he says. He makes a small cry. His back arches, and every muscle in his body tightens.”
“A hedgehog flies from the safety of a bush, startling me. It darts past us in a terrible hurry. Kartik nods toward the furry little thing. "Don't mind him. He's off to meet his lady friend.""How can you be sure?""He has on his best hedgehog suit.""Ah, I should have noticed." I say, happy to be playing this game-any game-with him. I put my hand on the tree's trunk and swing myself around it slowly, letting my body feel gravity's pull. "And why has he worn his best?""He's been away in London, you see, and now he has returned to her," Kartik continues."And what if she is angry with him for being away so long?"Kartik circles just behind me. "She will forgive him.""Will she?" I say pointedly."It is his hope that she will, for he didn't mean to upset her." Kartik answers, and I am no longer sure we speak of the hedgehog."And is he happy to see her again?""Yes," Kartik says. "He should like to stay longer, but he cannot."The bark chafes against my hand. "Why is that?""He has his reasons, and hopes his lady will understand them one day." Kartik has changed direction. He comes around the other side of the tree. We are face to face. A palm of moonglow reaches through the branches to caress his face."Oh," I say, heart beating fast."And what would the lady hedgehog say to that?" he asks. His voice soft and low."She would say..." I swallow hard.Kartik steps closer. "Yes?""She would say," I whisper, "'If you please, I am not a hedgehog. I am a woodchuck.'"A small smile plays at Kartik's lips."He is fortunate to have so witty a lady friend," he says, and I wish I could have the moment back again to play differently.”