The Observing Eye: The Sayings of Muriel Spark

The Observing Eye is a collection of Muriel Spark’s brilliant asides, sayings, and aphorisms. No other writer can hold a candle to her wry, puckish observations:’Neurotics are awfully quick to notice other people’s mentalities.”It is impossible to persuade a man who does not disagree, but smiles.”The sacrifice of pleasure is of course itself a pleasure.”Be on the alert to recognize your prime at whatever time in your life it may occur.”Ridicule is the only honourable weapon we have left.’Spark’s striking insights are precise and unforgettable – they will make you laugh and nod in agreement, with a wicked smile on your face. Her wise words never fail to hit exactly the right note.

Reviews of The Observing Eye: The Sayings of Muriel Spark

There is no question about the quality and distinctiveness of her writing, with its quirky concern with human nature, and its comedy * William Boyd * The greatest Scottish novelist of modern times . . . my admiration for spark's contribution to literature known no bounds * Ian Rankin * Mercurially funny, playful and mischievous * Ali Smith * A master of malice and mayhem — Michiko Kakutani * New York Times *