"The English language has a deceptive air of simplicity; so have some little frocks; but they are both not the kind of thing you can run up in half an hour with a machine"

This quote by Dorothy L. Sayers is a contrast in between the English language and a basic dress. She is recommending that although the English language and a basic gown may seem easy to create, they are really rather complicated and need a lot of skill and effort to produce. The quote suggests that the English language and an easy dress are not something that can be quickly and easily created, like a machine-made garment. This quote is a pointer that although something may seem basic, it can often be more intricate than it appears. It is a reminder to put in the time to appreciate the complexity of the English language and the skill and effort that goes into creating something beautiful.