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The Observing Eye is a collection of Muriel Spark’s brilliant asides, sayings, and aphorisms. No other writer can hold a candle to her wry, puckish observations:
‘Neurotics are awfully quick to notice other people’s mentalities.’
‘It is impossible to persuade a man who does not disagree, but smiles.’
‘The sacrifice of pleasure is of course itself a pleasure.’
‘Be on the alert to recognize your prime at whatever time in your life it may occur.’
‘Ridicule is the only honourable weapon we have left.’
Spark’s striking insights are precise and unforgettable – they will make you laugh and nod in agreement, with a wicked smile on your face. Her wise words never fail to hit exactly the right note.
‘Neurotics are awfully quick to notice other people’s mentalities.’
‘It is impossible to persuade a man who does not disagree, but smiles.’
‘The sacrifice of pleasure is of course itself a pleasure.’
‘Be on the alert to recognize your prime at whatever time in your life it may occur.’
‘Ridicule is the only honourable weapon we have left.’
Spark’s striking insights are precise and unforgettable – they will make you laugh and nod in agreement, with a wicked smile on your face. Her wise words never fail to hit exactly the right note.
Reviews
There is no question about the quality and distinctiveness of her writing, with its quirky concern with human nature, and its comedy
The greatest Scottish novelist of modern times . . . my admiration for spark's contribution to literature known no bounds
A master of malice and mayhem
Mercurially funny, playful and mischievous
