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About this quote

What does it mean?
This quote expresses extreme frustration or irritation with a situation, enough to provoke even a typically reserved person.
In plain terms
Something is so annoying that even a very calm person would get angry.
What can you take from it?
Some situations are so frustrating they test patience completely.

Where it applies

  • dealing with annoyances
  • managing stress
  • facing injustice

Putting it to work

  • venting frustration
  • setting boundaries
  • recognizing limits

Questions to consider

  • What makes you lose your temper?
  • How do you handle extreme irritation?

Another view

Not everyone reacts with anger to frustrating situations.

More from James Russell Lowell

  1. My gran'ther's rule was safer 'n 'tis to crow: Don't never prophesy-onless ye know.

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  2. Folks never understand the folks they hate.

    Permalink to quote #65

  3. God makes sech nights, all white an' still, Fur'z you can look or listen, Moonshine an' snow on field an' hill, All silence an' all glisten.

    Permalink to quote #62

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