"The Romanian, in general, although he has a sense of humor, is serious and pondering. He dislikes banter. This explains why Caragiale's works, to many people's amazement, are not relished enough across the nation. […] The Romanian is constructive, steadfast, and observes in silence and with interest the others' progresses, borrowing whatever he deems really useful. His false apathy is a crisis sprung from despair. Our race, that saw the fruit of its effort periodically laid waste by political earthquakes, has become cautious and builds in miniature, solidly, and hidden in the mountains. It is afraid of drawing attention by raising belfries toward the sky."
by George Călinescu (1899-1965)
