And such a pinched-looking ruin of a thing now! I shall advice all the good-looking woman of my acquaintance not to die

And such a pinched-looking ruin of a thing now! I shall advice all the good-looking woman of my acquaintance not to die

Susanna Clarke, the acclaimed author of the novel "Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell," is known for her intricate storytelling and vivid characters. In her work, she often explores themes of magic, power, and transformation. One of the most memorable quotes from her novel is, "And such a pinched-looking ruin of a thing now! I shall advise all the good-looking women of my acquaintance not to die."

This quote is spoken by a character who is observing the physical deterioration of another character. The speaker is struck by the stark contrast between the person's former beauty and their current appearance. The use of the word "ruin" suggests a sense of decay and loss, as if the person's beauty has been destroyed or taken away.

The speaker's advice to "all the good-looking women of my acquaintance not to die" is both humorous and poignant. On one hand, it is a lighthearted way of acknowledging the fleeting nature of beauty and the inevitability of aging. It is a reminder that even the most beautiful among us will eventually succumb to the ravages of time.

On the other hand, the quote also speaks to the power of beauty and the impact it can have on others. The speaker's concern for the good-looking women in their acquaintance suggests a recognition of the importance of beauty in society and the ways in which it can shape our perceptions of others.

Overall, this quote from Susanna Clarke's work is a reflection on the transience of beauty and the ways in which it can be both a blessing and a curse. It is a reminder to appreciate the beauty in our lives while we have it, and to recognize that true beauty comes from within, rather than from outward appearances.