How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
When an American has an idea he looks out for a second American to share it. If there are three of them they elect a chairman and two secretaries. (1.5)
Americans love their democracy, huh? As a Frenchman, Verne seems fascinated by this American tendency because it's so different from his own. However, that said, he doesn't necessarily see it as the best way to get things done.
Quote #2
It is evident that the sole preoccupation of this learned society was the destruction of humanity from motives of philanthropy. (1.12)
While America is respected for its innovative spirit, the country has often used this trait for all the wrong reasons. Hopefully, the Gun Club's lunar mission is a sign that these illustrious inventors have had a change of heart.
Quote #3
They were met by masses of the public […] pushing, shoving, and crushing each other with that liberty of action peculiar to crowds educated in ideas of self-government. (2.1)
There's a fine line between democracy and mob rule—in cases like these, it's hard to even make a distinction. While freedom is a great thing, it inevitably means that things are going to be a little harder to control. But you know what? It's worth it.
Quote #4
Impey Barbicane was a man of about forty; calm, cold, austere; of a character eminently serious and concentrated […] In a word, a Yankee all over. (1.7)
Like Hulk Hogan, Clint Eastwood, or Captain America, Barbicane is a real American. While these stereotypes might not be completely true to this day, it's easy to see how this archetype has shaped the modern American.
Quote #5
In America all is easy, all is simple; and as regards mechanical difficulties, they are conquered before they arise. (3.3)
This is rooted in the American Dream—Americans are taught that hard work always pays off. Although things don't always work this smoothly, this unrelenting drive helps Americans achieve seemingly-impossible things.
Quote #6
The American public took an immense interest in the minutest details connected with the undertaking of the Gun Club. (10.1)
The American public loves big media spectacles. This holds true in real life—NASA's Apollo Missions launched the biggest media frenzy since the Beatles first arrived in the U.S.A. We can't even imagine the reaction to a Beatles-led lunar mission.
Quote #7
We all knows how American railways are constructed—with what capricious curves and steep inclines […] without any regard for the straight line. (14.5)
This is a perfect metaphor for the American mindset. Americans are not usually detail-oriented people—they've got their eyes on the big picture—but luckily, men like Barbicane are around to steady the ship… even though his attention to detail makes him suspect to his fellow citizens.
Quote #8
They think of humanity in general than in particular instances. (14.22)
While Verne is deeply concerned (in true French fashion) with the lives of individuals, Americans like Barbicane? Not so much.
Quote #9
The president was blamed; he was considered autocratic; his proceeding was styled un-American. (16.20)
In America, there's nothing worse than keeping secrets from your fellow citizens. After all, the country was founded on the idea that everyone deserves to have their voice heard.
Quote #10
Resting is hardly the correct expression, for American beds rival for hardness their marble or granite tables. (21.1)
Americans are some tough customers. At the time that this book was written, the country was still very much in its Wild West stage—not exactly a luxurious lifestyle befitting a French adventurer, to be honest.