“If you think squash is a competitive activity, try flower arrangement.”
The world of competitive sports is renowned for its intensity and fierce rivalries. However, when we turn our attention to activities traditionally viewed as peaceful and refined, we uncover unexpected challenges. This intriguing notion is captured in the witty observation about flower arranging being more competitive than squash. The humor lies in the surprising comparison, suggesting that the serene art of floral design is not as tranquil as it appears.
The Origin of the Quotation
This memorable quote originates from Alan Bennett, a distinguished English dramatist. Source) Bennett crafted this observation in 1987 for his acclaimed work “Talking Heads.” This series of dramatic monologues showcases his talent for capturing authentic voices and subtle humor. The specific monologue containing this remark is titled “Bed Among the Lentils,” and the line appears on page 34 of the BBC Books edition published in 1988 .
Performance and Popularity
Maggie Smith, a renowned actress, brought these words to life during the BBC television broadcast. Her portrayal of the character Susan helped cement the quote in popular consciousness. Some people even associate the words with her rather than the playwright who penned them. This performance history adds an interesting layer to the quote’s journey through time.
Variations and Misattributions
The quote exists in two primary variations. The first reads: “If you think squash is a competitive activity, try flower arrangement.” The second uses a hyphenated form: “If you think squash is a competitive activity, try flower-arranging.” The difference seems minor, but it becomes significant in the realm of attribution research. Early citations, such as the 1989 “The Penguin Thesaurus of Quotations,” included a subtle inaccuracy by using “flower-arranging” with a hyphen, deviating from Bennett’s original phrasing.
Recognition in Reference Works
By 2000, “The Times Book of Quotations” featured the saying with proper attribution to Alan Bennett. This reference work dated the source to “Talking Heads” from 1988 and presented the quotation using “flower arrangement” without hyphenation. Over the decades, the quote has appeared in multiple prestigious reference collections, demonstrating its lasting appeal. In 2003, it appeared in “Collins Dictionary Quotations,” followed by the “Oxford Dictionary of Humorous Quotations” in 2008, and “Garner’s Quotations: A Modern Miscellany” in 2020.
Why the Quote Resonates
This quote continues to resonate because it challenges our assumptions about which activities breed intense competitive spirits. It humorously suggests that beneath the peaceful surface of flower arranging lurks a surprisingly cutthroat world of competition. This clever juxtaposition invites us to reevaluate what we consider competitive, reminding us that appearances can be deceiving.
Conclusion
The quote “If you think squash is a competitive activity, try flower arrangement” invites us to explore the unexpected intensity found in seemingly peaceful activities. Alan Bennett’s clever observation, brought to life by Maggie Smith, continues to entertain and provoke thought. Its enduring relevance in various reference works highlights its wit and the timeless nature of its message. As we consider the competitive spirit within different activities, we realize that competition can emerge in the most unexpected places.