Anne Of Green Gables Puffed Sleeves Quote
Introduction
"Anne Of Green Gables" is a famous novel written by Canadian author Lucy Maud Montgomery that tells the story of Anne Shirley, a young orphan girl who is mistakenly sent to live with an elderly couple. The book has become a classic, beloved by generations of readers around the world. One of the most memorable moments in the book is when Anne declares that she wants "puffed sleeves" for her dress, a detail that has become an iconic part of both the book and its adaptations.
The Quote
The quote in question comes from Chapter 27 of the book, when Anne is preparing to attend a concert in town. She has been invited by her friend Diana Barry, and is determined to make a good impression. Anne has a new dress, but she is not satisfied with it, feeling that it is too plain and unremarkable. She tells Marilla, her guardian, that she wishes the dress had "puffed sleeves". Marilla is surprised, as puffed sleeves were not fashionable at the time, but Anne is insistent. She explains that she wants to look pretty and feminine, and that puffed sleeves are the perfect way to achieve that look.
The quote itself is as follows:
"Oh, Marilla," exclaimed Anne, "I'm so excited. I can hardly even think. My mind is positively in a whirl. Oh, Marilla, I've had a most FASCINATING time. I feel that I have not lived in vain and I shall always feel like that even if I should never be invited to tea at a manse again. When I got there Mrs. Allan met me at the door. She invited me in SOCIALLY, you know. There were two other ladies there, Mrs. Lynde and Mrs. Blewett. They ALL came out to the hall to meet me. And they ALL talked and talked and talked. I hardly knew who I was or where I was, I felt so excited. At last Mrs. Allan reached for her spencer and said she must go out into the kitchen to see to tea. And Mrs. Lynde says, 'Won't you come in and have tea with us, Miss Shirley?' just like that, SO. I didn't know they ever noticed me enough to ask me to tea. But I must say I was LIGHTED UP with that invitation, Marilla. I just said 'Thank you kindly' and walked out. I'll never forget it. He was sitting right THERE--because I saw him as I came in--ever so far away in the corner. He was looking right at me, Marilla, and you know he smiled. I saw him. Of course it was easy to KNOW it was for me. He was QUALITY and BRED--and oh, Marilla, it's so hard to be humble and ANXIOUS TO BE GRATEFUL at the same time. I WANTED to say, 'Yes, I know I'm just PRETTY, but have you ever heard of ANYONE ELSE who dared to come to a concert in a dress trimmed with OLD ROSE SATIN?' I didn't, though. I stayed humble. But I was GLAD of the OLD ROSE SATIN, too, for you mustn't think I'm ungrateful. Oh, it was a wonderful afternoon. Almost the best of my life. The only worst thing was that Mirella had made me wear that horrible brown dress. I felt so plain in it, nobody would ever notice me. But I had my little dream. That's something, isn't it, Marilla?""I'd rather you had a good nap," said Marilla, patting her shoulder, "but seeing that you couldn't I'd rather you had a have a real good time. But anyhow you're a nice child, and you've done your part real well. The picnic was a success and you did your share. I like to see people stirring about early in the morning--it makes me feel as if they were accomplishing something. When I hear the drone of your voices I feel comforted. And I notice that along toward the end of the term your work improved right along, Miss Shirley." Anne beamed up at her. Those words were an inspiration to her all her life--she knew that she could never sink into insignificance now. She must always make people know she was PERSONALITY plus." "I was reading a book last night, Marilla. But I really didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would. It was full of murder and bloodshed. I don't think I'd like to be a queen. Queens have to be very dignified, Marilla, and I don't know how to be dignified. I'm afraid I'm just a SIMPLE GIRL, fond of simple things like ATTIC WINDOWS and DAISIES and BIG WHITE MOONS. I'm quite sure I DON'T want to be a queen."
The Symbolism of Puffed Sleeves
So why are puffed sleeves so important to Anne? In part, it is because they represent her desire to be seen as beautiful and feminine, something that is not always easy for her as an orphan girl with a fiery temper and a tendency to speak her mind. Puffed sleeves are a sign of gentility and refinement, something that Anne aspires to. At the same time, puffed sleeves are also a way for Anne to assert her individuality and creativity. She is not content to simply wear what everyone else is wearing; she wants to stand out and be noticed. In this way, puffed sleeves become a symbol of Anne's own unique spirit and character.
The Legacy of "Anne Of Green Gables"
"Anne Of Green Gables" has had a lasting impact on popular culture, inspiring numerous adaptations and spin-offs. The character of Anne Shirley has become an icon of Canadian literature, and her story continues to resonate with readers of all ages. The quote about puffed sleeves has become one of the most famous lines from the book, and has been referenced in countless articles, essays, and discussions about the novel. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of Montgomery's writing, and to the timeless appeal of Anne's story.
Conclusion
Whether you are a die-hard fan of "Anne Of Green Gables" or simply appreciate the power of a good quote, the line about puffed sleeves is a memorable and iconic moment from the book. It speaks to Anne's desire for beauty, individuality, and self-expression, and has become a symbol of her enduring spirit and character. Whether you are a fan of puffed sleeves or not, there is no denying the impact that this quote has had on generations of readers around the world.