Meaning: This quote by Julian Clary, a British comedian, touches on the British fascination with eccentricity and the reserved nature of English society. It humorously captures the idea that while the English may appreciate eccentricity from a distance or in the public sphere, they may not necessarily embrace it in their immediate surroundings.

The fascination with eccentricity in English culture can be traced back to a long tradition of celebrating individuality and non-conformity. Throughout history, Britain has been home to numerous eccentric personalities who have captured the public's imagination, from artists and writers to inventors and political figures. The English have often found amusement and intrigue in the unconventional behavior and unconventional lifestyles of these individuals.

At the same time, there is a certain degree of reserve and propriety ingrained in English society, which may lead to a reluctance to fully embrace eccentricity in close proximity. The English value privacy and a sense of decorum, and the idea of living next door to someone whose behavior or lifestyle is perceived as eccentric might be seen as disruptive or uncomfortable.

This tension between appreciation for eccentricity and the desire for social conformity is reflected in various aspects of British culture, from literature and art to popular media and entertainment. Characters like Sherlock Holmes, Willy Wonka, and Doctor Who have become beloved figures in British culture, each embodying a certain degree of eccentricity that captures the imagination of audiences. At the same time, these characters often exist in fictional or fantastical worlds, allowing the English to enjoy their eccentricities from a safe distance.

In popular culture, British comedies often feature eccentric characters who provide entertainment and amusement, but the humor often arises from the juxtaposition of their unconventional behavior with the reactions of more conventional characters. This reflects the idea that eccentricity is entertaining and intriguing, but it may not necessarily be something that the English are fully comfortable with in their immediate surroundings.

The quote by Julian Clary, being a comedian himself, also plays into the tradition of using humor to address societal norms and expectations. By highlighting the contrast between the English appreciation for eccentrics and their reluctance to have them as neighbors, Clary brings attention to the complex relationship between individuality and social acceptance in British culture.

In conclusion, Julian Clary's quote captures the nuanced attitude of the English towards eccentricity. While there is an appreciation for individuality and non-conformity in the broader cultural landscape, there may be a certain reservation when it comes to embracing eccentricity in close proximity. This tension between fascination and reservation reflects the complex interplay of tradition, social norms, and individual expression in British society.