Meaning: The quote "Little old ladies of both sexes. Why do I let them bother me?" is from American writer John O'Hara. O'Hara was known for his realistic portrayals of American society, particularly the lives and relationships of the upper class in the early to mid-20th century. This quote captures the frustration and exasperation of the speaker in dealing with the opinions and behaviors of elderly individuals. It reflects a sense of annoyance and perhaps even a hint of self-reflection on why the speaker allows themselves to be affected by the actions of these individuals.

In this quote, O'Hara seems to be highlighting the idea that regardless of age or gender, certain individuals can be particularly bothersome or irritating. The use of the phrase "little old ladies of both sexes" suggests that the speaker is not singling out a specific gender but rather referring to a general type of person who is getting on their nerves. This could also be interpreted as a commentary on the universal nature of human annoyance – that it is not limited to a particular group or gender.

The quote also raises the question of why the speaker allows these individuals to bother them. This introspective element adds depth to the quote, as it suggests that the speaker is grappling with their own emotional reactions and perhaps questioning the reasons behind their irritation. This introspection could also be seen as a broader critique of human nature and the tendency to let the actions and opinions of others affect us, even when they may be inconsequential in the grand scheme of things.

John O'Hara was known for his keen observations of human behavior and his ability to capture the nuances of everyday interactions. This quote demonstrates his skill in distilling complex emotions and experiences into concise and evocative language. The frustration and exasperation expressed in the quote are relatable to many people who have found themselves similarly annoyed by the actions or comments of others.

In the broader context of O'Hara's work, this quote can be seen as part of his larger exploration of human relationships and the dynamics of social interaction. O'Hara was known for his unflinching portrayals of the complexities of human behavior, and this quote serves as a prime example of his ability to capture the nuances of interpersonal friction and emotional tension.

Overall, the quote "Little old ladies of both sexes. Why do I let them bother me?" encapsulates the universal experience of being irked by the actions or comments of others, while also prompting reflection on the reasons behind our emotional reactions. Through this quote, O'Hara invites readers to consider the ways in which they are affected by the behaviors of others and to examine the underlying motivations for their emotional responses.