“There is too much singing and dancing, such lightness as loosens the restraints of virtue,' she complained, her white curls quivering. 'When I was young we held to the courtly ways, but nowadays the world is running all to ruin.”
Modern Relevance
In this quote from Lisa Klein, the speaker expresses disdain for the perceived decline in virtue and propriety in modern society. They bemoan the prevalence of singing, dancing, and light-heartedness which they believe undermines the values upheld in their youth. This sentiment reflects a common theme of nostalgia for the past and criticism of contemporary cultural norms.
Quote Analysis
In this quote from Lisa Klein, the character is expressing her disapproval of the carefree and indulgent behavior she witnesses around her. She longs for the more restrained and refined manners of her youth, lamenting the perceived decline of virtue in society. This reflects a common theme in literature of the clash between tradition and modernity.
The character's complaint about the "singing and dancing" and the "lightness" that "loosens the restraints of virtue" suggests a belief in the importance of restraint and propriety in behavior. She contrasts this with the "courtly ways" of her youth, implying a sense of nostalgia for a more refined and controlled lifestyle. The character's characterization of the world as "running all to ruin" further emphasizes her belief that society is declining in moral standards. This quote highlights the tension between the values of the past and the changing norms of the present.
Disapproval of Modern Times
“There is too much singing and dancing, such lightness as loosens the restraints of virtue,' she complained, her white curls quivering. 'When I was young we held to the courtly ways, but nowadays the world is running all to ruin.” - Lisa Klein
Reflective Questions:
In this quote from Lisa Klein, we see a character lamenting the perceived decline in morality and decorum in society. As you reflect on this quote, consider the following questions:
How do you think societal values and norms have evolved over time, particularly in regards to behaviors like singing, dancing, and expressions of joy?
Is there value in upholding traditional courtly ways, or do you believe that societal changes have ultimately been for the better?
How do you personally view the balance between restraint and freedom in one's behavior and expression? Do you believe there is a right or wrong way to navigate this balance?
Consider the idea that change is inevitable. In what ways can we adapt and find understanding in the evolving nature of societal standards and behaviors?
Similar quotes
“The loss of virtue in a female is irretrievable - that one false step involves in her endless ruin - that her reputation is no less brittle than it is beautiful - and that she cannot be too much guarded in her behavior towards the undeserving of the opposite sex.”
“That's when Sam grabbed my hand. "I love this song!" She led me to the dance floor. And she started dancing. And I started dancing. It was a fast song, so I wasn't very good, but she didn't seem to mind. We were just dancing, and that was enough. The song ended, and then a slow one came on. She looked at me. I looked at her. Then, she took my hands and pulled me in to dance slow. I don't know how to dance slow very well either, but I do know how to sway. Her whisper smelled like cranberry juice and vodka. "I looked for you in the parking lot today." I hoped mine still smelled like toothpaste. "I was looking for you, too." Then, we were quiet for the rest of the song. She held me a little closer. I held her a little closer. And we kept dancing. It was the one time all day that I really wanted the clock to stop. And just be there for a long time.”
“That loss of virtue in a female is irretrievable-- that one false step involves her in endless ruin-- that her reputation is no less brittle than it is beautiful-- and that she cannot be too much guarded in her behavior towards the undeserving of the opposite sex." ~Mary Bennett, P&P”
“There was a young lady from GloucesterWho complained that her parents both bossed her,So she ran off to Maine.Did her parents complain?Not at all -- they were glad to have lost her.”
“...He danced with a young woman with no hair, but who wore a wig of shining beetles that swarmed and seethed on her head. His third partner complained bitterly whenever Stephen's hand happened to brush her gown; she said it put her gown of its singing; and, when Stephen looked down, he saw that her gown was indeed covered with tiny mouths which opened and sang a little tune in a series of high, errie notes.”