Question

Explain the following sentence: “He inhaled some snuff before he spoke, and by that time he seemed to have forgotten what I had said.”

Hint:

Details like gestures and habits often reveal a character’s mindset more than direct statements.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Context.
This line portrays a humorous and slightly ironic moment that reveals the absent-minded or careless attitude of the speaker’s companion.
Step 2: Explanation.
The act of inhaling snuff and forgetting the conversation suggests distraction or indifference. It shows how people often lose focus in conversation, especially when engaged in trivial habits. The sentence reflects a light, realistic observation of human behavior.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The sentence humorously depicts forgetfulness, showing how easily the speaker’s point was lost due to the other person’s inattentiveness.