We must beware the revenge of the starved senses, the embittered animal in its prison.
J. B. PriestleyRead
Living in an age of advertisement, we are perpetually disillusioned. The perfect life is spread before us every day, but it changes and withers at a touch.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote critiques the superficiality of advertising and its impact on our perceptions of life.
J. B. Priestley highlights the deceptive nature of advertisements that portray an idealized version of life, leading to feelings of disillusionment. He suggests that while these advertisements present a perfect image, they are inherently temporary and fragile, hinting at the underlying dissatisfaction they can create in our everyday lives.
Themes
AdvertisementDisillusionmentPerceptionSuperficialityIdealism
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is perfect for a discussion on consumerism in a marketing class.
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We plan, we toil, we suffer - in the hope of what? A camel-load of idol's eyes? The title deeds of Radio City? The empire of Asia? A trip to the moon? No, no, no, no. Simply to wake just in time to smell coffee and bacon and eggs.
J. B. PriestleyRead
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