Loneliness had taught Harriet that there was always someone who understood - it was just so often that they were dead, and in a book.
Interpretation
Loneliness can lead to the realization that wisdom and understanding often come from those who have passed, particularly through literature.
In this quote by Eva Ibbotson, the speaker reflects on the profound lesson learned from loneliness: that connection and understanding can often be found through the written word. Although loved ones may no longer be present, their thoughts, feelings, and experiences can be explored in books, providing solace and companionship even in solitude.
In practice
Sharing this quote during a book club meeting to emphasize the importance of literature in overcoming loneliness.
I’m not sad, but the boys who are looking for sad girls always find me. I’m not a girl anymore and I’m not sad anymore. You want me to be a tragic backdrop so that you can appear to be illuminated, so that people can say ‘Wow, isn't he so terribly brave to love a girl who is so obviously sad?’ You think I’ll be the dark sky so you can be the star? I’ll swallow you whole.
Prop 8 did something that no other state in the history of this country has done. It took away the rights of people that already were legally affirmed. Imagine someone putting something on the ballot saying your wedding, your marriage is no longer valid.
He breathed out the bitter air that makes women doubt everything, and I breathed it in, as I had always done. I expelled my dust, the powder of everything I had destroyed with doubt, and he pulled it into his lungs.
Show me someone who never gossips, and I will show you someone who is not interested in people.
Marriage has no guarantees. If that's what you're looking for, go live with a car battery.
Never Hesitate to hold out your hand; never hesitate to accept the outstretched hand of another.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.