“The English make bonny speeches, but they run to an awful wee man. And the Kerrs . . . there’s something unchancy about a left-handed race.’ ‘I’m right-handed,’ offered Will Scott. ‘Aye.’ ‘And six foot three in my hose.’ ‘Uh-huh. I didna say I wanted to run up a beanpole. Nor have I heard hide nor hair of a speech, bonny or otherwise.’ ‘I’m saving it,’ he said austerely, ‘till I’ve the theme for it.’ ‘Oh!’ said Grizel Beaton (Younger) of Buccleuch, with a squeal of delight. ‘Will Scott! Are we having our first married set-to?”
-
Working on it...
-
Working on it...
-
Working on it...
Quote Analysis from Dorothy Dunnett
In this excerpt, we see interactions rich with subtext and character dynamics, showcasing the interplay between perception, identity, and societal expectations. The dialogue reveals much about the characters involved and their relationships to one another and their culture.
The opening line about the "English" and the "Kerrs" highlights a sense of skepticism and cultural critique. It implies that while the English may be eloquent ("bonny speeches"), there are undertones of distrust towards their sincerity or substance. The term "awful wee man" could denote not just physicality but also a moral or emotional diminutiveness, contrasting physical stature with the weight of character.
Will Scott's interruption with “I’m right-handed” serves as a defense of his identity and possibly an assertion of his capability, despite the previous remark about left-handed individuals being “unchancy.” This reinforces his desire to stand out and assert his strengths, both physically (his height) and in character.
Grizel Beaton’s reaction brings an added layer of tension and humor to the exchange. Her excitement at the prospect of a "married set-to" hints at playful conflict as a dynamic in relationships, suggesting that such disagreements can be both intimate and vital to relational chemistry.
The conversation cleverly juxtaposes themes of identity and conversation, examining how people define each other and themselves in social contexts. The playful banter and underlying tensions illustrate the complexities of their connections, reflecting broader societal norms around masculinity, partnerships, and the roles individuals play within these frameworks. This excerpt thus serves as a microcosm of the characters’ lives and cultural nuances, revealing deeper truths about human interaction.
Similar quotes
“There’s some of them’ll be nursing a guid scratch or two on their hinder-ends this night.… Man, it was a rout.’ ‘I imagine,’ said Piero Strozzi, his dark face impassive, ‘that my lord Grey’s army would not relish their defeat either.’ ‘Oh, aye, the English,’ said Buccleuch absently. ‘We are, after all, at war with them and not with the Kerrs,’ the Marshal said mildly.”
“I’m not running away from my responsibilities. I’m running to them. There’s nothing negative about running away to save my life.”
“He gripped the edge of the desk. “I’ve done my best to make sure my brothers have no blood on their hands,” he said with menacing quiet. “I’m going to hell for all three of us.” Beckett said defiantly.”
“There’s nothing to read into. I’m here to collect my beloved Damon andStefan is just helping me.”Bonnie looked at her with her brows knitted and her mouth pursed, butdidn’t venture a word.“Bonnie?”“Um-hm?”“Did I just say what I thought I said?”“Um-hm.”Elena, with one motion, gathered an armful of pillows and deposited themon her face.”
“See Scott run,Run Scott run.See Scott die,No such luck.”