Meaning: This quote by George Ade, a renowned playwright and humorist, captures the essence of how communication, especially in the form of a telegram, can elevate one's sense of importance. In the era before instant messaging and social media, receiving a telegram was considered a significant event, often carrying news of great importance or urgency. The brevity and formality of telegrams added to their weight and impact, making them a symbol of significance and importance in the recipient's life.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, telegrams were a primary means of long-distance communication, especially for urgent matters. The cost of sending a telegram was based on the number of words, which contributed to the significance attached to receiving one with more than ten words. The additional words indicated that the message was substantial, possibly bearing crucial information or news that demanded the recipient's immediate attention.

The quote reflects the human desire for recognition and significance. In an era when communication was more deliberate and less instantaneous, the arrival of a telegram with more than ten words signified that the sender had taken the time and expense to convey a substantial message. This act of deliberate communication reinforced the recipient's sense of importance and relevance in the sender's life or in the context of the message.

Furthermore, the quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the evolving nature of communication and its impact on human emotions. In today's digital age, where communication is often rapid and transient, the sentiment of feeling important upon receiving a telegram with more than ten words may seem antiquated. However, the underlying human need for meaningful and personal communication remains unchanged.

George Ade, known for his wit and keen observations of human behavior, likely intended the quote to be humorous yet thought-provoking. It invites reflection on the ways in which communication shapes our perceptions of importance and significance. In a world where attention is often fragmented and fleeting, the quote serves as a reminder of the value of meaningful and substantial communication that makes us feel acknowledged and significant.

In conclusion, George Ade's quote encapsulates the significance of telegrams in an earlier era and the impact they had on the recipients. It speaks to the human desire for recognition and the role of communication in shaping our sense of importance. While the context of communication has evolved, the underlying emotional resonance of feeling important through meaningful communication remains a timeless and universal aspect of the human experience.