I freely chose the kind of life I led because I was convinced that a woman has as much right as a man to live the way she does if she does no actual harm to society.
Mae WestRead
A girl in the convertible is worth five in the phone book.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote humorously suggests that real-life charm and presence is more valuable than being merely listed or defined in a conventional way.
Mae West's quote uses a playful exaggeration to highlight the idea that personal presence, especially in a lively and engaging context, is far more appealing than being just a name in a directory. It suggests that the excitement of real-life experiences, represented by the girl in a convertible, surpasses the dullness of anonymity or conventionality symbolized by those merely listed in a phone book.
Themes
ValuePresenceHumorLifeEngagement
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about valuing real experiences over material possessions.
More from Mae West
All quotes βKiss and make up-but too much makeup has ruined many a kiss.
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I'll try anything once, twice if I like it, three times to make sure.
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Don't keep a man guessing too long - he's sure to find the answer somewhere else.
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I only have 'yes' men around me. Who needs 'no' men?
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I believe that one day the world will judge the witch hunt against homosexuals just as harshly as it judges the Spanish Inquisition and the Holocaust.
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