People always seem to think that they are improper, and either look shocked, which is vulgar, or laugh, which is worse.
 Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest (1895). copy citation

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Author Oscar Wilde
Source The Importance of Being Earnest
Topic laugh thought
Date 1895
Language English
Reference
Note
Weblink http://www.gutenberg.org/files/844/844-h/844-h.htm

Context

“Lady Bracknell. Thank you, Algernon. It is very thoughtful of you. [Rising, and following Algernon.] I’m sure the programme will be delightful, after a few expurgations. French songs I cannot possibly allow. People always seem to think that they are improper, and either look shocked, which is vulgar, or laugh, which is worse. But German sounds a thoroughly respectable language, and indeed, I believe is so. Gwendolen, you will accompany me.
Gwendolen. Certainly, mamma.
[Lady Bracknell and Algernon go into the music-room, Gwendolen remains behind.]
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