“ I would much rather have been merry than wise. ”
Jane Austen, Emma (1815). copy citation
| Author | Jane Austen |
|---|---|
| Source | Emma |
| Topic | wisdom happiness |
| Date | 1815 |
| Language | English |
| Reference | |
| Note | |
| Weblink | http://www.gutenberg.org/files/158/158-h/158-h.htm |
Context
“that ball!—why did we wait for any thing?—why not seize the pleasure at once?—How often is happiness destroyed by preparation, foolish preparation!—You told us it would be so.—Oh! Miss Woodhouse, why are you always so right?»
«Indeed, I am very sorry to be right in this instance. I would much rather have been merry than wise.»
«If I can come again, we are still to have our ball. My father depends on it. Do not forget your engagement.»
Emma looked graciously.
«Such a fortnight as it has been!» he continued; «every day more precious and more delightful than the day before!—every day making me less fit to bear any other place.” source
«Indeed, I am very sorry to be right in this instance. I would much rather have been merry than wise.»
«If I can come again, we are still to have our ball. My father depends on it. Do not forget your engagement.»
Emma looked graciously.
«Such a fortnight as it has been!» he continued; «every day more precious and more delightful than the day before!—every day making me less fit to bear any other place.” source
Meaning and analysis
