Meaning: This quote by Joyce Grenfell, an English actress, comedian, and singer, captures the concept of happiness in a playful and relatable way. The imagery of getting out of corsets at night suggests a sense of relief, freedom, and release from constraints. While corsets were historically worn to conform to a certain standard of beauty and decorum, Grenfell's quote subverts this notion, presenting the act of removing the corset as a moment of liberation and joy.

In the context of the quote, the corset can be seen as a metaphor for any form of confinement or restriction that an individual may experience in their daily life. This could include societal expectations, personal insecurities, or the pressures of modern living. The act of "getting out of your corsets at night" becomes a metaphor for shedding these burdens and allowing oneself to experience a sense of ease and authenticity.

Grenfell's choice of words is particularly evocative. The use of "sublime" to describe the moment of liberation from the corset elevates the experience to a higher, almost transcendent, state. This suggests that the feeling of happiness derived from shedding constraints is not merely fleeting, but rather a profound and deeply satisfying experience. The word "sublime" also hints at the idea that true happiness lies in moments of freedom and authenticity, rather than in conformity or pretense.

The quote can also be interpreted in a broader context, beyond the literal act of removing a corset. It speaks to the universal human desire for freedom, both physical and emotional. It encourages individuals to seek out moments of liberation and to embrace their true selves, unencumbered by external expectations or pressures.

Furthermore, the quote may also be seen as a commentary on the societal norms and expectations that have historically constrained women. The corset, a garment designed to shape and control the female body, has long been associated with the restrictive standards of beauty and femininity. By framing the act of removing the corset as a moment of happiness, Grenfell subtly challenges these norms and celebrates the idea of women reclaiming their autonomy and agency.

In summary, Joyce Grenfell's quote encapsulates the essence of happiness as a profound sense of liberation and freedom from constraints. It encourages individuals to seek out moments of authenticity and release, and to embrace their true selves. The imagery of getting out of corsets at night serves as a powerful metaphor for shedding societal expectations and finding joy in moments of genuine self-expression.