My father was the doyen of the divorce barristers. He was an extremely erudite and very famous divorce barrister. So that, when I was a little boy in the nursery, instead of a story like 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,' I used to get 'The Duchess and the Seven Correspondents.'

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The quote by John Mortimer humorously reflects on his childhood and his father’s prominent career as a divorce barrister. Mortimer describes his father as the doyen—or leading expert—and very famous in his field, highlighting the respect and recognition he commanded. This background shaped Mortimer’s early experiences, even influencing the kinds of stories he heard as a child.

Instead of typical fairy tales like “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” Mortimer was read legal-themed stories such as “The Duchess and the Seven Correspondents.” This playful twist illustrates how his father’s profession permeated his upbringing, blending the world of law with childhood imagination. It shows how a famous parent’s career can leave a unique imprint on one’s early life.

The origin of this quote comes from Mortimer’s reflections on his family and upbringing, revealing how his father’s status in the legal world influenced his own path. Mortimer himself became a successful barrister and author, often drawing on his legal background in his work. This quote captures the blend of humor, respect, and personal history that shaped his perspective.