Chime Technology and Modernization Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #1

The gentlemen had gotten on to talking about Mr. Clayborne's official business, which was to drain the water from the swamp. This was going to improve life in the Swampsea, at least according to Queen Anne. (3.46)

Okay, so the Queen says this is going to be a good thing, but won't this also force those who are accustomed to their way of life in Swampsea to make big, uncomfortable changes?

Quote #2

"Are those paper clips?" I'd seen them in catalogs, but the pictures don't do them justice. They're beautiful, in an industrial sort of way. (3.52)

Paperclips are so new that they can be thought of as beautiful, though Briony also quickly modifies her assessment but noting their beauty is sort of "industrial."

Quote #3

The London I'd never see, strung with electric wires and brilliant with switch-on lamps. I've always wondered whether they string lamps into the lavatories, or do even Londoners think they are certain things best left in the dark? (3.80)

Briony's fascination with electric wires and switch-on lamps highlights how technology can drastically change a way of life for people—and to answer her question, yes, the lights go into the bathroom.