How many of us are able to distinguish between the odors of noon and midnight, or of winter and summer, or of a windy spell and a still one? If man is so generally less happy in the cities than in the country, it is because all these variations and nuances of sight and smell and sound are less clearly marked and lost in the general monotony of gray walls and cement pavements.

Summary

This quote highlights the impact of urban environments on human happiness. It suggests that the lack of distinct sensory experiences in cities, such as the different smells, sights, and sounds during different times and seasons, contributes to a general unhappiness compared to the country. The monotony of gray walls and cement pavements in cities diminishes the ability to appreciate and distinguish these nuances, resulting in a less fulfilling sensory experience for individuals.

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