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She makes me get up just at the same time every morning; she makes me wash, they comb me all to thunder; she won't let me sleep in the woodshed; I got to wear them blamed clothes that just smothers me, Tom; they don't seem to let any air git through 'em, somehow; and they're so rotten nice that I can't set down, nor lay down, nor roll around anywher's; I hain't slid on a cellar-door for - well, it 'pears to be years; I got to go to church and sweat and sweat - I hate them ornery sermons! I can't ketch a fly in there, I can't chaw. I got to wear shoes all Sunday. The widder eats by a bell; she goes to bed by a bell; she gits up by a bell - everything's so awful reg'lar a body can't stand it.

Samuel Langhorne Clemens#75

PsychologySocietyDaily lifeOppressionRoutine

About this quote

What does it mean?
The narrator complains about the oppressive routine and constraints imposed by a domineering figure, describing daily chores, clothing, and forced attendance at church.
In plain terms
He feels trapped by strict daily rules and unwanted duties.
What can you take from it?
Recognize when routine becomes oppressive and seek freedom.

Where it applies

  • living under strict authority
  • daily chores

Putting it to work

  • set personal boundaries
  • find moments of personal freedom

Questions to consider

  • When does routine become harmful?
  • How can one maintain dignity under strict expectations?

Another view

The tone is exaggerated and may not reflect a balanced view of the situation.

More from Samuel Langhorne Clemens

  1. To promise not to do a thing is the surest way in the world to make a body want to go and do that very thing.

    Permalink to quote #74
  2. There is a sumptuous variety about the New England weather that compels the stranger's admiration - and regret. The weather is always doing something there; al…

    Permalink to quote #76
  3. There was no getting around the stubborn fact that taking sweetmeats was only 'hooking,' while taking bacon and hams and such valuables was plain simple steali…

    Permalink to quote #73

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