I received the book Emily Post: Daughter of the Gilded Age, Mistress of American Manners
In the meantime, I came across this quote from Emily and thought it was a good one to share:
“Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others. If you have that awareness, you have good manners, no matter which fork you use.”
― Emily Post
So true. So often we get caught up in trying to be perfect in the etiquette department, and in the meantime we offend someone just because we’re not making them feel relaxed in our home. Something to remember the next time you have a dinner party! One of the biggest compliments someone can give you is that they feel comfortable in your home.
This is certainly a different, and better, view of Emily Post than my previous image of her–which was prim and boring and picky about all the wrong things, like which fork to use. Refreshing!
Charlotte –
Yes, exactly! That book I mentioned above was really eye-opening for me. It gave me a totally different picture of Emily, how she dealt with her husband’s infidelity, how she decided to work, how she tried to update the manner’s books so they wouldn’t be outdated or stuffy…. I had no idea.
It’s so great to see this quote– I have always been fascinated by Emily Post and the Gilded Age, and now I can’t wait to get this book!
In addition, your website seems layered and interesting. It will take me some time to work through all that you offer, but the site is very dynamic! I look forward to spending more time here.
Shelly, thanks for your kind words! Yes, you definitely have to read that book, it was very interesting. It’s nice to have you here!