" Mother is far too clever to understand anything she does not like. "
- Arnold Bennett

This statement suggests that a mother's intelligence can sometimes work against her understanding or acceptance of certain ideas or situations. It implies that when faced with information she finds disagreeable, a mother may subconsciously avoid comprehending it, preferring to remain unaware rather than confront something uncomfortable.

The deeper meaning behind this quote lies in human nature’s tendency to filter out information that contradicts one's beliefs or desires. This selective understanding is not unique to mothers but can be observed across different relationships and contexts where people protect their emotional comfort by avoiding challenging truths. The statement encapsulates the idea that intelligence does not always lead to acceptance of reality, especially when such realities conflict with personal views or feelings.

Arnold Bennett was an English author known for his novels and essays, published in the early 20th century. He explored themes related to social class, human relationships, and psychological insights in a realistic yet insightful manner. His work often delved into the complexities of everyday life, offering nuanced perspectives on personal and societal issues.