I think that this, apart from Jane Austen, was probably my first Virago. This quote is on page four of my original book of quotes, so probably around the time I was 16... This passage spoke to me then and speaks to me now...
'However dark things may seem little rays of light and understanding will break through. Perhaps this is all there will ever be, all we have the right to expect. But so long as we are open to receive them that is all that matters. Whatever happens we must never shrug our shoulders and say
"Well, I had such dreams and nothing came of them, but things haven't been so bad, I've got along somehow."
You must never do that to yourself. Delve into your despair and rage against it, rather than that. But never subscribe to the littleness of life.' Mary Hocking Welcome Strangers.
'However dark things may seem little rays of light and understanding will break through. Perhaps this is all there will ever be, all we have the right to expect. But so long as we are open to receive them that is all that matters. Whatever happens we must never shrug our shoulders and say
"Well, I had such dreams and nothing came of them, but things haven't been so bad, I've got along somehow."
You must never do that to yourself. Delve into your despair and rage against it, rather than that. But never subscribe to the littleness of life.' Mary Hocking Welcome Strangers.
Aren't Virago novels all about not 'subscribing to the littleness of life', whatever that may mean for our situation?
This quote is fantastic! I reread it several times and wrote it down to remind me. Love it! Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI have just read these books and loved them, and this is a wonderful quote
ReplyDeletePoppies and Verity - So glad you like the quote.
ReplyDeleteLovely quote. Or not so lovely as one chooses to see it. For not everyone is equipped to delve into the rage and despair. The littleness is so often easier although not necessarily preferable. Somehow I think we all make decisions for ourselves both ways having both little and big moments in our lives. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteWhat a breathtaking quote. I agree entirely - I have never been one to just accept life as it comes. I am a rager. And I wouldn't have it any other way.
ReplyDeleteAfter Verity's review and now this quote, I will be sure to pick the Mary Hocking trilogy up. What magnificent writing.
I have a feeling you are going to be posting some marvellous and thought provoking words this week! Thank you so much for taking part!
Frances - thank you I shall always think of your point when reading this quote again.
ReplyDeleteBookssnob - I'm thinking a re read may in order for me. I hope my posts this week live up to your thoughts.
I think if ever I had met Mary Hocking we would have become best friends...what a woman! Such spirit!
ReplyDeleteThis quote is wonderful. It comes at a perfect time for me, lots of thoughts going round in my head at the moment. I shall try and rage against my despair and use it for good. Thank-you.
ReplyDeleteLuvvie - Your thought makes me want to read more Mary Hockimg to see if I think that too.
ReplyDeleteMarie - So glad this quote came at the tright time for you.