Meaning: The quote "What was funny if you were there is that we were all immensely sophisticated people who knew exactly what she was going to say and we're chatting away, nice to see you." by Anthony Holden, a renowned journalist, captures a sense of irony and perhaps even a hint of sarcasm. The quote seems to allude to a situation where a group of individuals, despite their sophistication and knowledge, pretends to be unaware of something or someone's actions or intentions. Let's delve deeper into the context of the quote to understand its implications.

The quote suggests a contrast between outward appearances and inner knowledge or understanding. The phrase "immensely sophisticated people" implies a certain level of refinement, knowledge, and awareness among the individuals in the scenario. However, the subsequent statement "who knew exactly what she was going to say" indicates that these sophisticated people were not actually oblivious to the situation at hand. They were fully aware of what was going to transpire, despite their outward pretense of not knowing.

The use of the phrase "we're chatting away, nice to see you" further emphasizes the facade being maintained by the group. It portrays a casual and nonchalant attitude, as if they were engaged in light conversation or pleasantries while being fully cognizant of the impending situation. This juxtaposition of knowing and pretending not to know creates a sense of humor or amusement, as suggested by the opening phrase "What was funny if you were there."

The quote can be interpreted in various contexts, such as social dynamics, power play, or even the theatrical nature of human interactions. It brings to mind situations where individuals engage in polite conversations or social rituals while being fully aware of the underlying dynamics or intentions. This duality of awareness and pretense is a common aspect of human behavior and social interactions, and the quote captures this phenomenon with a touch of wry observation.

Anthony Holden, as a journalist, is known for his keen insight into human behavior and his ability to encapsulate complex situations in succinct yet evocative language. His quote reflects a keen understanding of the intricacies of human interaction and the layers of meaning that underlie seemingly straightforward social encounters.

In conclusion, Anthony Holden's quote "What was funny if you were there is that we were all immensely sophisticated people who knew exactly what she was going to say and we're chatting away, nice to see you" offers a thought-provoking commentary on the interplay between knowledge and pretense in social situations. It invites reflection on the nuances of human behavior, the masks we wear in social settings, and the humor inherent in our ability to navigate these complexities.