Meaning: This quote by Doris Lessing, the renowned British writer, provides a thought-provoking comparison between pleasure resorts, film stars, and royalty. The quote suggests that pleasure resorts, much like well-known individuals such as film stars and royalty, are often perceived and idealized by those who have never experienced them firsthand. The comparison serves as a metaphor for the larger concept of perception versus reality in the world of luxury and fame.

When considering pleasure resorts, it is important to understand the allure they hold for many people. These destinations are often marketed as paradisiacal escapes from the mundane realities of everyday life. With their promise of relaxation, indulgence, and beauty, pleasure resorts are designed to appeal to our desires for luxury and escape. However, as the quote suggests, the image of these resorts can be exaggerated and distorted in the minds of those who have never visited them, much like the idealized perceptions people hold of film stars and royalty.

Film stars and royalty are often idolized and mythologized by the public. Their lives are portrayed in the media and popular culture, creating a larger-than-life image that may not necessarily reflect the reality of their experiences. Similarly, pleasure resorts are often depicted in advertisements, travel brochures, and social media as idyllic havens of opulence and tranquility. These depictions can create unrealistic expectations and fantasies in the minds of those who have never had the opportunity to visit these resorts.

The comparison drawn by Lessing highlights the disconnect between perception and reality. Just as people may have preconceived notions about film stars and royalty based on media portrayals, they may also have romanticized ideas about pleasure resorts without truly understanding what they are like. This can lead to a sense of disillusionment when the reality of these places does not align with the idealized images created in the minds of the public.

Furthermore, the quote implies a sense of discomfort or unease felt by pleasure resorts, film stars, and royalty in light of the fantasies and expectations projected onto them. It suggests that these entities may feel self-conscious or embarrassed by the larger-than-life personas attributed to them by those who have never had direct contact with them. This speaks to the burden of living up to idealized perceptions and the pressure to maintain a certain image in the eyes of the public.

In conclusion, Doris Lessing's quote offers a compelling perspective on the intersection of perception, fantasy, and reality in the realms of luxury, fame, and escapism. It reminds us to approach our perceptions of pleasure resorts, film stars, and royalty with a critical eye, acknowledging the potential disparity between the idealized images we create and the actual experiences of these entities. It also prompts us to consider the impact of our fantasies and expectations on the objects of our admiration, highlighting the complexities of navigating public perception and maintaining authenticity in the face of idealization.