Book: Disgrace

Affection may not be love, but at least the cousin is such.

Poor old Katy, she [the dog] in mourning. Nobody wants her and knows it. The funny thing is that she, most likely, the offspring, and they would be happy to share their homes with her. But to take her home not in their power. They are part of the furniture, part of the alarm system. They do us the honour of treating us like gods, and we in return treat them as inanimate creatures.

- Well, you're welcome to stay.
Very nice of you to say so, my dear, but I would like to keep your friendship. And long visits are not good friends.

History repeats itself, only looks modest. Perhaps history learned something.

When everything turns to dust - philosophize.

- ... I had an affair with a girl.
Serious?
- And that its severity can improve or worsen my situation? After a certain age, all Affairs are serious. Like heart attacks.

The rumor mill is turning day and night, grinding reputations.

The deed is done. Two names on a piece of paper, his and hers, side by side. Two in a bed, not lovers but enemies.

- Are you married?
Was. Twice. Now no.
He says: "Now I am satisfied with what will turn up." Doesn't say, "Now I make do with whores."

Temperament will not change, for he is too old. His temperament is fixed, set. The skull, followed by the temperament: the two hardest parts of a person.

When she lifts the mug to his lips, he leans over and touches her cheek.
You're very lovely, ' he says. - Will have to invite you to do something reckless. - He again touches her cheek. - Stay. Spend the night with me.
Above the Cup she gives him a hard look.
Why?
Because it's your duty.
- Why the debt?
Why? Because a woman's beauty does not belong to her alone. It's part of the bounty she brings into the world. So she owes this gift to share.