Snail Mail is an unexpected party in an envelope.

[rohanasm]

I am a bit confused about the meaning of the saying "Snail Mail is an unexpected party in an envelope.", especially the word "party". Is it used here as in eg "3rd party" or rather like "a celebration"? Thank you.

 

[GoesStation]

That is not a saying I've ever heard, nor one I can make sense of. Can you provide more context?

 

[rohanasm]

It is a quote (by an unknown) - a sort of conclusion at the end of a chapter that talks about the importance of sending letters and cards to people who are not feeling well.

 

[GoesStation]

In that case, it's just a quotation. A phrase has to be in common use to qualify as a saying; it has to be said frequently.

The author means that the recipient feels like a party has been thrown for them, and it arrived in an envelope.

I'm quite sure I won't feel that way if I'm ever ill enough to prompt someone to send me a get-well card.

 

[Charlie Bernstein]

I am a bit confused about the meaning of the saying "Snail mail is an unexpected party in an envelope.", especially the word "party". Is it used here as in eg "3rd party" or rather like "a celebration"? Thank you.

Celebration. It means it's fun to get snail mail. Woo-hoo! Party, party, party!

 

[Tdol]

People don't send many letters now, so receiving one is unexpected and pleasant.