turn down a glass

[beeja]

Hi,

The context say...

Somewhere, as you read, the secret to which I refer will jump from the page and stand boldly before you, IF YOU ARE READY FOR IT! When it appears, you will
recognize it. Whether you receive the sign in the first or the last chapter, stop for a moment when it presents itself, and turn down a glass, for that occasion will mark the most important turning-point of your life.

What does "turn down a glass" in this context mean? Just put down a glass (of water)? Very confused! Please help!

[Marylin]

Originally Posted by beeja

Hi,

The context say...

Somewhere, as you read, the secret to which I refer will jump from the page and stand boldly before you, IF YOU ARE READY FOR IT! When it appears, you will
recognize it. Whether you receive the sign in the first or the last chapter, stop for a moment when it presents itself, and turn down a glass, for that occasion will mark the most important turning-point of your life.

What does "turn down a glass" in this context mean? Just put down a glass (of water)? Very confused! Please help!

I am not sure...I am thinking about an hourglass and maybe it stands for turning it meaning starting something new ?= turning the corner? =passing a milestone?

[Marylin]

It might also be a figure of speech...you trurn down a glass as an indication that you don't wish to have it filled again. Perhaps that's what it means...it's time to say stop to one thing in favor of something else that's more important.

[Tdol]

Like an alcoholic saying no to a drink for the first time?????

[Marylin]

Originally Posted by tdol

Like an alcoholic saying no to a drink for the first time?????

Well, that's crossed my mind as well. Good one! We must be getting closer...

[Mister Micawber]

In memory of a drinking companion who has passed away, it is customary to turn down (= turn upside down) a glass (representing his/hers) on the table the next time you go drinking, and pause a moment to remember him/her.

Thus, 'turn down a glass' = stop for a moment of thought.

[Marylin]

Originally Posted by Mister Micawber

In memory of a drinking companion who has passed away, it is customary to turn down (= turn upside down) a glass (representing his/hers) on the table the next time you go drinking, and pause a moment to remember him/her.

Thus, 'turn down a glass' = stop for a moment of thought.

Thanks, MM! That's pretty interesting. Never heard that one before...

[holmesc21@earthlink.net]

Thank you soooo much for that! I just started Think and Grow Rich, and stopped at that phrase!

[Tdol]

Mr Micawber is a great source of such language points.