Nobody can tell what I suffer! But it is always so. Those who do not complain are never pitied.

~ Jane Austen

Jane Austen Complaints Histrionics Hysterics Irony Mrs Bennett Suffering

It is naturally a sign of inner liberation when a patient can squarely recognize his difficulties and take them with a grain of humor. But some patients at the beginning of analysis make incessant jokes about themselves, or exaggerate their difficulties in so dramatic a way that they will appear funny, while they are at the same time absurdly sensitive to any criticism. In these instances humor is used to take the sting out of an otherwise unbearable shame.

~ Karen Horney

Karen Horney Criticism Histrionics Humor Neurosis Neurotic Pride Neuroticism Psychoanalysis Responsibility Sensitive

Mr. Bennet, how can you abuse your own children in such a way? Youtake delight in vexing me. You have no compassion for my poor nerves.You mistake me, my dear. I have a high respect for your nerves. Theyare my old friends. I have heard you mention them with considerationthese last twenty years at least.

~ Jane Austen

Jane Austen Histrionics Hysteria Irony Nerves Sarcasm