Meaning: This quote is often attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt, the longest-serving First Lady of the United States, and a prominent advocate for human rights and social justice. The quote is a clever and humorous reflection on the nature of recognition and praise. It captures the irony of being honored with a namesake rose but then being disheartened by the unflattering description that accompanied it.

In this quote, Eleanor Roosevelt is expressing her initial flattery at having a rose named after her. This act of naming a flower after an individual is typically a gesture of admiration and honor. However, her initial pleasure turns to disappointment when she reads the description of the rose in the catalogue. The description, "no good in a bed, but fine up against a wall," is a play on words that juxtaposes the traditional use of roses in garden beds with their use against walls as climbing plants. The humor lies in the contrast between the flattering act of naming a rose after her and the less-than-flattering description that follows.

Eleanor Roosevelt's response to this description reflects her wit and self-awareness. Despite the initial flattery, she is able to see the irony and humor in the situation. Her ability to find humor and perspective in this experience is characteristic of her resilience and her capacity to navigate challenging or disappointing circumstances with grace and humor.

This quote also offers a deeper reflection on the nature of recognition and praise. It highlights the complexity of receiving acknowledgment or honors, and the potential for unexpected or less-than-flattering outcomes. It serves as a reminder that recognition, whether in the form of a namesake rose or any other form of honor, does not necessarily guarantee a positive or accurate portrayal.

Overall, this quote by Eleanor Roosevelt is a poignant and humorous commentary on the complexities of recognition and the ability to find humor and insight in unexpected or less-than-ideal situations. It reflects her resilience, wit, and capacity for self-reflection, all of which were qualities that defined her as a public figure and advocate for social change.

In conclusion, Eleanor Roosevelt's quote about having a rose named after her and the less-than-flattering description that accompanied it offers a glimpse into her wit, resilience, and ability to find humor in unexpected situations. It serves as a reminder of the complexities of recognition and the potential for unexpected outcomes, and it showcases her capacity for self-reflection and perspective. This quote continues to resonate as a memorable and insightful expression of the human experience.