It was the shadow of Some one who had gone by long before…
““It was the shadow of Some one who had gone by long before: of Some one who had gone on far away quite out of reach, never, never to come back. It was bright to look at; and when the tiny woman showed it to the Princess, she was proud of it with all her heart, as a great, great, treasure. When the Princess had considered it a little while, she said to the tiny woman, And you keep watch over this, every day? And she cast down her eyes, and whispered, Yes. Then the Princess said, Remind me why. To which the other replied, that no one so good and so kind had ever passed that way, and that was why in the beginning. She said, too, that nobody missed it, that nobody was the worse for it, that Some one had gone on to those who were expecting him-- 'Some one was a man then?' interposed Maggy. Little Dorrit timidly said yes, she believed so; and resumed: '-- Had gone on to those who were expecting him, and that this remembrance was stolen or kept back from nobody. The Princess made answer, Ah! But when the cottager died it would be discovered there. The tiny woman told her No; when that time came, it would sink quietly into her own grave, and would never be found.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A treasured, unseen truth is guarded by a humble keeper, symbolizing hidden wisdom that only the pure‑hearted recognize.
In simple terms: Hidden knowledge is protected by those who value it.
Key Takeaway
Respect and seek hidden wisdom.
Themes
mystery
wisdom
guardianship
Mood
contemplative
melancholy
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- literary analysis
- personal reflection
- teaching moments
Key Concepts
symbolism
trust
spiritual insight
Questions to Reflect On
- What hidden truths do you hold?
- How can you honor those who protect wisdom?
A Different Perspective
The truth may be lost if not shared; guardians may be reluctant.