“I have no objection whatever to your representing me as a little eccentric, since you and your learned friends would have it so; only don't set me on in my fury to burning hearthrugs, sawing the backs off chairs, and tearing my wife's silk gowns... Had I been numbered amongst the calm, concentric men of the world, I should not have been as I now am, and I should in all probability never have had such children as mine have been.”
In this quote, Patrick Brontë is expressing his acceptance of being seen as eccentric by others. He acknowledges that his unique behavior and temperament have led to his children being who they are. By stating, "Had I been numbered amongst the calm, concentric men of the world, I should not have been as I now am, and I should in all probability never have had such children as mine have been," Brontë is recognizing that his quirks and differences have directly influenced the upbringing and personalities of his children. This quote reveals Brontë's belief that his eccentricities have played a crucial role in shaping the family dynamics and individual traits of his children.
Patrick Brontë's words about embracing his eccentricity and the unique qualities that make him who he is still resonate in today's society. In a world that often pressures individuals to conform to certain standards, it is important to remember that embracing our differences can lead to incredible accomplishments and unique perspectives. This quote serves as a reminder to embrace our quirks and idiosyncrasies, as they may be the very qualities that set us apart and lead us to success.
"I have no objection whatever to your representing me as a little eccentric, since you and your learned friends would have it so; only don't set me on in my fury to burning hearthrugs, sawing the backs off chairs, and tearing my wife's silk gowns... Had I been numbered amongst the calm, concentric men of the world, I should not have been as I now am, and I should in all probability never have had such children as mine have been.” - Patrick Brontë.
In this quote, Patrick Brontë reflects on his own eccentricity and how it has impacted his life and his children. As you consider this quote, here are some reflection questions to ponder:
“You never had to fight for me to begin with. I am yours and have been from the moment I saw you”
“ "Turn my back on the world..." the historian repeated softly and slowly, his head moving to face the mage. "Turn my back on the world!" Emotion rarely marred the surface of Astinus's cold voice, but now anger struck the placid calm of his soul like a rock hurled into still water."I? Turn my back on the world?" Astinus's voice rolled around the library as the thunder had rolled previously. "I am the world, as you well know, old friend! Countless times I have been born! Countless deaths I have died! Every tear shed - mine have flowed! Every drop of blood spilled - mine has drained! Every agony, every joy ever felt has been mine to share!"I sit with my hand on the Sphere of Time, the sphere you made for me, old friend, and I travel the length and breadth of this world chronicling its history. I have committed the blackest deeds! I have made the noblest sacrifices. I am human, elf, and ogre. I am male and female. I have borne children. I have murdered children. I saw you as you were. I see you as you are. If I seem cold and unfeeling, it is because that is how I survive without losing my sanity! My passion goes into my words.”
“I miss you.…” He stroked the indentation of the gown where her waist would have been—should have been. “I miss you so much.”
“I cannot,' said Merry. 'I have never seen them. I have never been outside of my own land before. And if I had known what the world outside was like, I don't think I should have had the heart to leave it.”
“As I was escorted outside by the officers, my friends looked back at me with blank expressions. I don’t think they knew what to say to me. I had lied to them about my home life. They had always been there for me and probably would have understood if I had told them the truth from the start, but it was too late. All the lies I had told them about having a perfect family had been shattered by that one incident.”