"Quoting, like smoking, is a dirty habit to which I am devoted"

Carolyn Heilbrun's quote is an amusing method of expressing her dedication to quoting. She is comparing her habit of pricing quote to cigarette smoking, which is normally viewed as a negative habit. She is suggesting that pricing estimate is a habit that is not necessarily seen as favorable, but she is committed to it nonetheless. This quote might be interpreted as a metaphor for how she is committed to her writing and her craft. Quoting is a method of expressing her ideas and concepts, and she is devoted to it in spite of the fact that it is not constantly viewed as a favorable practice. She is devoted to her craft and wants to take the risk of being judged for her habit of estimating. This quote is a humorous way of expressing her commitment to her craft and her determination to take risks in order to reveal her ideas and concepts.