Meaning: The quote "My own idea is that these things are as piffle before the wind" is a whimsical and somewhat dismissive statement made by Daisy Ashford, an English writer known for her humorous and satirical works. Born in 1881, Ashford gained fame for her novel "The Young Visiters," which she wrote at the age of nine but was not published until she was an adult. The quote reflects Ashford's playful and lighthearted approach to life and literature.

In this quote, Ashford uses the word "piffle" to convey a sense of triviality or insignificance. The word "piffle" is informal and somewhat outdated, meaning nonsense or foolish talk. By likening "these things" to piffle before the wind, Ashford suggests that whatever she is referring to is easily blown away or rendered inconsequential by the force of the wind. This metaphorical imagery conveys a sense of impermanence and transience, indicating that the things in question hold little weight or significance in the grand scheme of things.

Ashford's choice of words and the overall tone of the quote reflect her distinctive literary style, characterized by a blend of wit, charm, and a hint of irreverence. Her writing often exhibits a keen sense of observational humor and a knack for capturing the quirks and foibles of human behavior. In this particular quote, Ashford's playful language and whimsical imagery serve to downplay the importance of "these things" in a light-hearted and amusing manner.

It's worth noting that Ashford's writing style and the themes she explores in her works are often rooted in a keen sense of irony and satire. Through her characters and narratives, she frequently skewers societal conventions and human pretensions, offering a satirical commentary on the absurdities of everyday life. This quote, while seemingly flippant on the surface, may carry an underlying critique of the trivialities and frivolities that often preoccupy people's attention.

In addition to her literary pursuits, Ashford's life story also adds depth to the interpretation of this quote. Despite achieving early literary success with "The Young Visiters," Ashford's writing career took a backseat as she navigated the demands of adulthood, marriage, and family life. Her experiences as a wife, mother, and working woman likely shaped her perspective on the fleeting nature of certain concerns and preoccupations, further informing the sentiment expressed in the quote.

Ultimately, Ashford's quote serves as a charming and light-hearted reflection on the ephemerality of certain matters in life. By likening them to "piffle before the wind," she invites readers to adopt a more relaxed and humorous view of the transient and inconsequential aspects of life. In doing so, she showcases her unique ability to infuse everyday observations with literary flair and a touch of whimsy, leaving behind a legacy of delightful wit and insight.