Mrs. Ballinger is one of the ladies who pursue Culture in bands, as though it were dangerous to meet it alone.

Summary

This quote by Edith Wharton from her novel The House of Mirth is a satirical observation on the behavior of certain individuals who engage in cultural pursuits collectively rather than individually. The "Mrs. Ballinger" referred to is portrayed as someone who seeks cultural experiences in groups, possibly out of a fear of facing new ideas alone. Wharton suggests that these individuals may perceive cultural exploration as a risky or intimidating endeavor and find solace in the company of others when venturing into the realm of culture. Ultimately, the quote critiques herd-like conformity in the pursuit of intellectual enrichment.

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