“ I have always been of opinion that a man who desires to get married should know either everything or nothing. ”
Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest (1895). copy citation
| Author | Oscar Wilde |
|---|---|
| Source | The Importance of Being Earnest |
| Topic | dilemma marriage |
| Date | 1895 |
| Language | English |
| Reference | |
| Note | |
| Weblink | http://www.gutenberg.org/files/844/844-h/844-h.htm |
Context
“I am glad to hear it. A man should always have an occupation of some kind. There are far too many idle men in London as it is. How old are you?
jack. Twenty-nine.
Lady Bracknell. A very good age to be married at. I have always been of opinion that a man who desires to get married should know either everything or nothing. Which do you know?
jack. [After some hesitation.] I know nothing, Lady Bracknell.
Lady Bracknell. I am pleased to hear it. I do not approve of anything that tampers with natural ignorance. Ignorance is like a delicate exotic fruit; touch it and the bloom is gone.” source
jack. Twenty-nine.
Lady Bracknell. A very good age to be married at. I have always been of opinion that a man who desires to get married should know either everything or nothing. Which do you know?
jack. [After some hesitation.] I know nothing, Lady Bracknell.
Lady Bracknell. I am pleased to hear it. I do not approve of anything that tampers with natural ignorance. Ignorance is like a delicate exotic fruit; touch it and the bloom is gone.” source
Meaning and analysis
