"EVERY GIRL OR FELLOW WHO EVER KEPT A “BLIND DATE”"
The Shop Around the Corner - Movie Quotes
Memorable Quotes
There might be a lot we don't know about each other. You know, people seldom go to the trouble of scratching the surface of things to find the inner truth.
— Alfred Kralik
Context:
Said during one of their early, tense conversations in the shop, where they are discussing their general dislike for one another. Klara's sharp retort follows immediately.
Meaning:
This line encapsulates the central theme of the film. Kralik says it to Klara before he knows her secret identity, but it ironically foreshadows the entire journey they must take. It speaks to the difference between surface impressions (their bickering) and deeper reality (their hidden love).
Well I really wouldn't care to scratch your surface, Mr. Kralik, because I know exactly what I'd find. Instead of a heart, a hand-bag. Instead of a soul, a suitcase. And instead of an intellect, a cigarette lighter... which doesn't work.
— Klara Novak
Context:
This is Klara's immediate response to Kralik's "scratching the surface" comment, delivered with cutting precision in the middle of the shop.
Meaning:
This is Klara's witty, devastating comeback to Kralik's philosophical musing. It perfectly illustrates the animosity between them and showcases her sharp tongue. The insult is particularly clever as it uses the shop's merchandise to dehumanize him, reducing him to faulty goods.
Pirovitch, did you ever get a bonus? ... The boss hands you the envelope. You wonder how much is in it, and you don't want to open it. As long as the envelope's closed, you're a millionaire.
— Alfred Kralik
Context:
Kralik says this to his friend and confidant, Pirovitch, while they are at work, reflecting on the hopes and fears of working-class life.
Meaning:
This quote speaks to the theme of economic anxiety and the power of hope and imagination. It's a poignant reflection on how the anticipation of good fortune can sometimes be more satisfying than the reality, a feeling that mirrors his anticipation of meeting his pen pal.
Psychologically, I'm very confused... But personally, I don't feel bad at all.
— Klara Novak
Context:
Spoken to Kralik in the shop on Christmas Eve, shortly after he has revealed that he is her anonymous "dear friend."
Meaning:
This is Klara's wonderfully contradictory and human reaction in the film's final moments. It perfectly captures the confusing but delightful emotional state of discovering that the man she thought she despised is the man she loves. It is a hallmark of the sophisticated, witty dialogue for which the film is praised.
Doctor, do I call you a pill-peddler?
— Pepi Katona
Context:
Pepi says this to a doctor at the hospital after Mr. Matuschek's suicide attempt. The doctor patronizingly asks if Pepi is an "errand boy," and Pepi fires back with this clever response.
Meaning:
This witty retort from the ambitious delivery boy, Pepi, demonstrates his sharp mind and refusal to be condescended to. It's a comedic line that also reveals his character—he sees himself as much more than a mere errand boy and demands respect.