Darling, a true lady takes off her dignity with her clothes and does her whorish best. At other times you can be as modest and dignified as your persona requires.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Heinlein advises that a woman can shed dignity and propriety when she chooses, suggesting behavior should fit the context. He implies dignity is performative rather than inherent.
- In plain terms
- You can choose when to be dignified and when to drop decorum depending on the situation.
- What can you take from it?
- Adapt your behavior and dignity to fit the situation.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When should you drop your dignity?
- Is dignity a choice or a trait?
Another view
The quote implies women must perform roles rather than simply be themselves.
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