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 'Have you anything to say before the current is turned on?' That may be worse for the moment, but it doesn't last so long. For continued, unmitigating depression, I know nothing to equal 'The doctor will see you now.' But I'm not narrow-minded about it. I'm willing to consider other possibilities.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The author compares two dreaded phrases, finding that visiting a doctor causes longer depression.
- In plain terms
- Hearing 'The doctor will see you now' is worse than a last words warning.
- What can you take from it?
- Medical anxiety feels worse than legal threats.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What phrases make you anxious?
- Why is health news scary?
Another view
Not everyone finds medical visits as terrifying.
More from Robert Benchley
The way to go to the circus, however, is with someone who has seen perhaps one theatrical performance before in his life and that in the High School hall. ... …
Permalink to quote #1 A baby is shown sitting on the floor. He appears to be about a year and a half old. Incidentally, he is a very plain baby. Strewn about him on the floor are th…
Permalink to quote #3 At fifteen one is first beginning to realize that everything isn't money and power in this world, and is casting about for joys that do not turn to dross in on…
Permalink to quote #4
Related quotes
If you aren't in the moment, you are either looking forward to uncertainty, or back to pain and regret.
Jim CarreyJim Carrey quote #3 The anxiety has been greatly increased by this government's multiplication of exams and emphasis on starting training as a middle manager in a computer company…
John MortimerJohn Mortimer quote #5 Bella Swan: I glared at him. No danger? Sure. I only had a sadistic vampire trying to avenge her mate's death with my own, preferably through some slow and tor…
Stephenie MeyerStephenie Meyer quote #5