Or is it that I think too much? - Steve Martin

Everything was dragging me toward the arts; even the study of modern philosophy suggested that philosophy was nonsense.

In spite of her depression, Mirabelle likes to think of herself as humourous. She can, when the occasion calls, become a wisecracker and buoyant party girl. This mood, Mirabelle thinks, sometimes makes her the centre of attention at parties and gatherings. The truth is that these episodes of gaiety merely raise her to normal, but for Mirabelle the feeling is so exceptional that she believes herself to be standing out.

The conversation at dinner hadn't been successful either; it bore the marks of an old married couple who had very little left to say to each other.