Meaning: The quote "I feel about airplanes the way I feel about diets. It seems to me that they are wonderful things for other people to go on" by Jean Kerr, a renowned playwright, humorously captures a sentiment that many people can relate to. With a touch of wit and self-deprecation, Kerr juxtaposes two seemingly unrelated concepts - airplanes and diets - to express a common feeling of apprehension or reluctance towards these experiences.

When Kerr compares airplanes to diets, she is likely alluding to the mixed emotions that many individuals have towards air travel. Just as diets are often viewed as a necessary but challenging endeavor, airplanes can evoke feelings of both excitement and anxiety. For some, the thought of flying may bring about a sense of adventure and the promise of new experiences, while for others, it may trigger fear or discomfort related to flying, such as turbulence, crowded spaces, or the loss of control.

In likening airplanes to diets, Kerr also hints at the notion that these experiences may be more appealing or manageable when observed from a distance. The phrase "wonderful things for other people to go on" suggests a sense of detachment, as if the speaker is acknowledging the potential benefits of these activities for others while expressing a reluctance to partake in them personally. This sentiment reflects a common human tendency to view certain experiences as daunting or unappealing, particularly when they involve stepping outside one's comfort zone.

Furthermore, Kerr's use of humor in the quote serves to lighten the mood and create a sense of camaraderie with her audience. By expressing a relatable sentiment in a lighthearted manner, she invites readers to nod in agreement and perhaps even chuckle at the shared apprehension towards airplanes and diets. This approach aligns with Kerr's reputation as a playwright known for her sharp wit and insightful commentary on everyday experiences.

Jean Kerr's quote can be interpreted as a playful reflection on the complexities of human emotions and attitudes towards unfamiliar or challenging experiences. By equating airplanes with diets, she cleverly captures the ambivalence that many people feel when confronted with situations that demand a degree of courage, resilience, or adaptation. Ultimately, the quote resonates with audiences by acknowledging the universal tendency to approach certain endeavors with a blend of fascination, trepidation, and perhaps a touch of humor.

In conclusion, Jean Kerr's quote "I feel about airplanes the way I feel about diets. It seems to me that they are wonderful things for other people to go on" encapsulates a relatable sentiment about the ambivalence towards unfamiliar or challenging experiences. Through humor and wit, Kerr offers a playful yet insightful commentary on the complexities of human emotions and attitudes, inviting readers to commiserate and find humor in the shared reluctance towards certain endeavors. Her words serve as a reminder that it's okay to approach daunting experiences with a mixture of trepidation and humor, as these feelings are often part of the shared human experience.