I shuddered from stem to stern, as stout barks do when buffeted by the waves.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The narrator describes a physical reaction of intense fear or discomfort similar to a boat in a storm.
- In plain terms
- I was very shook up, like a boat in big waves.
- What can you take from it?
- Physical trembling can signal extreme fear or discomfort.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What physical signs show your fear?
- How does your body react to stress?
Another view
The metaphor is vivid but relies on a very specific physical image.
More from P. G. Wodehouse
If Eggy wanted to get spliced, let him, was the way I looked at it. Marriage might improve him. It was difficult to think of anything that wouldn't.
Permalink to quote #103 It was a harsh, rasping voice, in its timbre not unlike a sawmill.
Permalink to quote #105 'Didn't Frankenstein get married?' 'Did he?' said Eggy. 'I don't know. I never met him. Harrow man, I expect.'
Permalink to quote #102
Related quotes
Those set our hairs, but these our flesh upright.
John DonneJohn Donne quote #57 Hitler would go as white as a sheet and tightly clench his jaws, while his eyes would dilate. Everyone in his entourage would get panicky because these fits we…
Theodor MorellTheodor Morell quote #1 The English language may hold a more disagreeable combination of words than 'The doctor will see you now.' I am willing to concede something to the phrase 'Hav…
Robert BenchleyRobert Benchley quote #2