“You are no ruin, sir—no lightning-struck tree: you aregreen and vigorous. Plants will grow about your roots,whether you ask them or not, because they take delightin your bountiful shadow; and as they grow they will leantowards you, and wind round you, because your strengthoffers them so safe a prop.”
Explore This Quote Further
Finding Strength and Support in Others
In this quote from Jane Eyre, the idea of finding strength and support in others is highlighted. Just as plants naturally gravitate towards a strong and nurturing source for support, humans also seek out those who exude strength and offer stability in their lives. This can be seen as a reminder of the importance of surrounding ourselves with positive and supportive relationships in order to thrive and grow.
Feeling Strength and Support
In this quote from Jane Eyre, the speaker is reassuring the listener that they are not ruined or damaged, but rather strong and supportive like a tree that plants grow around for protection and stability. The imagery of plants growing towards the listener emphasizes their strength and ability to provide comfort and safety for others.
Analysis
In this quote from Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre, the speaker is comparing the character Mr. Rochester to a tree that has not been ruined or struck by lightning. Instead, he is described as "green and vigorous," indicating his strength and vitality. The plants growing around his roots symbolize those who are drawn to him and seek his protection and support. The imagery of plants growing and leaning towards Mr. Rochester highlights his magnetism and the sense of security and stability he provides to others. This quote speaks to Mr. Rochester's ability to nurture and protect those around him, as well as the natural attraction people feel towards strength and safety.
Reflection Questions:
In this quote from Jane Eyre, the speaker is expressing admiration for someone's strength and vitality. Reflect on the following questions:
- Who or what in your life provides you with a sense of strength and support, like the sturdy tree in the quote?
- How does your own strength and vitality impact those around you? Do you provide a safe and nurturing environment for others to grow?
- Have you ever underestimated your own resilience and ability to weather storms? How can you tap into your inner strength during challenging times?
- Consider the concept of being a source of support and comfort for others. How can you offer your "bountiful shadow" to those in need of shelter and guidance?
Similar quotes
“You are no ruin sir--no lighting-struck tree: you are green and vigorous. Plants will grow about your roots, whether you ask them or not, because they take delight in your bountiful shadow; and as they grow they will lean towards you, and wind round you, because your strength offers them so safe a prop.”
“Rochester: "I am no better than the old lightning-struck chestnut-tree in Thornfield orchard…And what right would that ruin have to bid a budding woodbine cover its decay with freshness?"Jane: "You are no ruin sir - no lighting-struck tree: you are green and vigorous. Plants will grow about your roots, whether you ask them or not, because they take delight in your bountiful shadow; and as they grow they will lean towards you, and wind round you, because your strength offers them so safe a prop.”
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