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About this quote

What does it mean?
Waugh jokingly describes himself as an unintended result of reproduction.
In plain terms
I am an accidental or unwanted child.
What can you take from it?
Accept one's place in life's plan.

Where it applies

  • self-reflection
  • family discussion
  • grief

Putting it to work

  • accept imperfection
  • find meaning

Questions to consider

  • Are we all accidental?
  • How do we find belonging?

Another view

Everyone is biologically planned or accidental.

More from Evelyn Waugh

  1. Mr. Sniggs, the Junior Dean, and Mr. Postlethwaite, the Domestic Bursar, sat alone in Mr. Sniggs's room overlooking the garden quad at Scone College.

    Permalink to quote #22
  2. 'We class schools, you see, into four grades: Leading School, First-rate School, Good School, and School. Frankly,' said Mr Levy, 'School is pretty bad...'

    Permalink to quote #24
  3. Please bear in mind throughout that IT IS MEANT TO BE FUNNY.

    Permalink to quote #21

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