Meaning: The quote "We were put to Dickens as children but it never quite took. That unremitting humanity soon had me cheesed off." by Alan Bennett, a renowned British playwright and author, reflects a sentiment that many readers may relate to. In this quote, Bennett expresses his experience with the works of Charles Dickens, one of the most celebrated novelists of the Victorian era. By examining the context of the quote and Alan Bennett's own background, we can gain a deeper understanding of its meaning and significance.

Alan Bennett's upbringing in Leeds, England, during the mid-20th century played a significant role in shaping his literary tastes and perspectives. As a child, he would have been exposed to the classic literature of authors like Charles Dickens as part of his education. Dickens' novels, with their vivid characters and richly detailed portrayals of Victorian society, have long been a staple of British literary education. However, Bennett's use of the phrase "it never quite took" suggests that his personal experience with Dickens' works did not have the lasting impact that might be expected.

The phrase "That unremitting humanity soon had me cheesed off" conveys Bennett's growing disillusionment with the relentless focus on human suffering and social injustice that characterizes much of Dickens' writing. While Dickens' novels are renowned for their compassion and empathy towards the plight of the underprivileged, Bennett's use of the colloquial expression "cheesed off" indicates a sense of irritation or weariness with this aspect of the author's work.

Bennett's perspective on Dickens' writing can be seen as a reflection of his own literary preferences and the changing attitudes towards Victorian literature in the 20th century. As a playwright and author known for his wit and incisive social commentary, Bennett's literary sensibilities may have diverged from the sentimentality and moralizing tone often associated with Dickens' writing. Instead, he may have been drawn to more contemporary and nuanced portrayals of human experiences and societal issues.

It is worth noting that Bennett's quote also offers a glimpse into the broader conversation about the enduring relevance of classic literature and its impact on readers across different generations. While Dickens' works continue to be revered for their enduring themes and memorable characters, Bennett's candid reflection serves as a reminder that individual responses to literature are deeply personal and shaped by diverse cultural and historical contexts.

In conclusion, Alan Bennett's quote about his experience with Charles Dickens' works provides insight into the complex relationship between readers and classic literature. By expressing his ambivalence towards Dickens' writing, Bennett invites us to consider the evolving nature of literary appreciation and the diverse ways in which readers engage with the works of celebrated authors. This quote serves as a thought-provoking reflection on the enduring power of literature to evoke varied and sometimes conflicting emotions in its readers, transcending the boundaries of time and cultural change.