Rochester talking to Jane: I see no enemy to a fortunate…
““Rochester talking to Jane: I see no enemy to a fortunate issue but in the brow; and that brow professes to say,--'I can live alone, if self-respect and circumstances require me so to do. I need not sell my soul to buy bliss. I have an inward treasure, born with me, which can keep me alive if all extraneous delights should be withheld; or offered only at a price I cannot afford to give.' The forehead declares, 'Reason sits firm and holds the reins, and she will not let the feelings burst away and hurry her to wild chasms. The passions may rage furiously, like true heathens, as they are; and the desires may imagine all sorts of vain things: but judgment shall still have the last word in every argument, and the casting vote in every decision. Strong wind, earthquake-shock, and fire may pass by: but I shall follow the guiding of that still small voice which interprets the dictates of conscience'" ””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Inner moral strength outweighs external temptations; reason guides conscience over fleeting desires.
In simple terms: Reason over desire; stay true to self.
Key Takeaway
Trust your inner voice.
Themes
self‑respect
conscience
reason
self‑control
Mood
thoughtful
determined
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- making ethical decisions
- resisting peer pressure
- personal reflection
- goal setting
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
inner strength
self‑reliance
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance reason and emotion?
- When have you ignored your conscience?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on rationality may suppress healthy emotions.