Wednesday 10 November 2010

Jane Austen Quote of the Week - Week 133



I have chosen a quote from chapter 21 of Persuasion. Anne and Mrs Smith are discussing Mr Elliot and his desire to marry a woman solely for her wealth. Mrs Smith explains that her husband was good friends with him and tells Anne how Mr Elliot ruined her husband. My particular quote is taken from the part where Anne is learning why Mr Elliot knew so much about her (she learns it was from discussions with Mrs Smith):

What wild imaginations one forms where dear self is concerned! How sure to be mistaken!

I found that this quote resonated well with me. I am frequently told that I think too much and analyse every situation rather unnecessarily. I do think it is natural to formulate wild imaginations when concerning self, particularly when holding a measure of insecurity, and this may be exaggerated in some more than others. Often these imaginings are not a true reflection of the situation and we find ourselves mistaken. I like that Jane has once again made an accurate observation of human behaviour.

Pic: Anne Elliot

2 comments:

Linda Fern said...

So true, Rachel. I can't help but wonder how she did that - know so much of human nature. I must dig deeper into her comings and goings and study. Hmm.

Yrs aff'ly,
Linda the Librarian

Toyin O. said...

Great book.