Original artwork, not a still
You've got city hands, Mr. Hooper...been countin' money all your life.
— Jaws · 1975
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
The speaker reads someone's hands as evidence of the life they have led. Calling them 'city hands' and linking them with counting money draws a contrast between kinds of work. The remark turns that supposed distinction into a pointed judgment of Mr Hooper.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for JawsShow the scene
Once the mayor finally signs off on hiring Quint, Hooper comes along to join the hunt, and Quint tests him with a length of rope: tie a sheepshank. Hooper ties it expertly and quips that Quint didn't say how short he wanted it, so Quint grabs his wrists and inspects his hands instead. Hooper pulls away from what he calls working-class-hero crap, and Quint muses that maybe he should go alone.
Sources (2)
- Wikiquote: Jaws (film)Dialogue section, Quint and Hooper sheepshank exchangeReference checked
- Wikipedia: Jaws (film)Plot sectionReference checked
Context reviewed
