Braininess is not attractive unless combined with some signs of elegance; class.
Interpretation
Intelligence can be appealing, but it must be accompanied by grace and sophistication to truly captivate others.
Alice Munro's quote suggests that while intelligence, or 'braininess', is valuable, it does not stand alone as a trait that makes someone attractive. For intelligence to be truly alluring, it should be enhanced by qualities such as elegance and class, implying that the combination of intellect and sophistication forms a deeper, more attractive character.
In practice
This quote is perfect for a speech about the importance of personal presentation alongside professional skills.
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I was amazed as people must be who are seized and kidnapped, and who realize that in the strange world of their captors they have a value absolutely unconnected with anything they know about themselves.
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Be resolutely and faithfully what you are; be humbly what you aspire to be.
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I have learned from my experiences in this industry that there is absolutely no way to control people's opinions on your performance in your movie. You go out there, promote your film and hope people like the work you did.
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