We grew up founding our dreams on the infinite promise of American advertising. I still believe that one can learn to play the piano by mail and that mud will give you a perfect complexion.
Meaning of the quote
The quote suggests that as we were growing up, we were often deceived by the promises made in advertising. Zelda Fitzgerald believed that even as an adult, she still thought it was possible to learn to play the piano just by taking a mail-order course, and that putting mud on your face could give you perfect skin. This shows how advertising can make unrealistic claims that people might believe, even though they are not true.
About Zelda Fitzgerald
Zelda Fitzgerald was an American novelist, painter, and socialite who became famous for her beauty and high spirits. She married writer F. Scott Fitzgerald, and together they were known as the ‘enfants terribles’ of the Jazz Age. Zelda’s mental health deteriorated over time, and she was diagnosed with schizophrenia, although later diagnoses suggest bipolar disorder. Despite her struggles, she authored the novel ‘Save Me the Waltz’ and pursued other artistic interests.
More quotes from Zelda Fitzgerald
By the time a person has achieved years adequate for choosing a direction, the die is cast and the moment has long since passed which determined the future.
American writer (1900-1948)
Mr. Fitzgerald, I believe that is how he spells his name, seems to believe that plagiarism begins at home.
American writer (1900-1948)
We grew up founding our dreams on the infinite promise of American advertising. I still believe that one can learn to play the piano by mail and that mud will give you a perfect complexion.
American writer (1900-1948)
I don’t want to live. I want to love first, and live incidentally.
American writer (1900-1948)
It is the loose ends with which men hang themselves.
American writer (1900-1948)
Nobody has ever measured, not even poets, how much the heart can hold.
American writer (1900-1948)
Youth doesn’t need friends – it only needs crowds.
American writer (1900-1948)