Ellen Olenska How can we be happy behind the backs of people who trust us?
Most-quoted character in The Age of Innocence (1993): in 9 of its 9 quotes
Most scenes with: Newland Archer (7)
Newland, you couldn't be happy if it meant being cruel. If we act any other way, I'll be making you act against what I love in you most. And I can't go back to that way of thinking. Don't you see! I can't love you unless I give you up.
More lines from Ellen Olenska
1 quote Ellen Olenska Scenes with Ellen Olenska
7 scenes Ellen Olenska I think we should look at reality, not dreams.
I just want us to be together!
Ellen Olenska I can't be your wife, Newland! Is it your idea that I should live with you as a mistress?
I want... Somehow, I want to get away with you... and... and find a world where words like that don't exist!
Ellen Olenska I knew you'd come.
That shows you wanted me to.
Honest? Isn't that why you admire Julius Beauford? He was more honest than the rest of us, wasn't he, we've got no character, no color, no variety. I wonder why you just don't go back to Europe.
Ellen Olenska I believe that's because of you.
You gave me my first glimpse of a real life. Then you asked me to go on with the false one. No one can endure it.
Ellen Olenska I'm enduring it.
Ellen Olenska Is New York such a labyrinth? I thought it was all straight up and down like Fifth Avenue. All the cross streets numbered and big honest labels on everything.
Everything is labeled, but everybody is not.
Ellen Olenska Then I must count on you for warnings too.
Ellen Olenska Is fashion such a serious consideration?
Among those who have nothing more serious to consider.
We should travel everywhere.
Louisa van der Luyden But not Naples. Doctor Bencomb says there is fever there.
