Listen to th' wind wutherin' round the house," she said…
“Listen to th' wind wutherin' round the house," she said. "You could bare stand up on the moor if you was out on it tonight." Mary did not know what "wutherin'" meant until she listened, and then she understood. It must mean that hollow shuddering sort of roar which rushed round and round the house, as if the giant no one could see were buffeting it and beating at the walls and windows to try to break in. But one knew he could not get in, and somehow it made one feel very safe and warm inside a room with a red coal fire.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Uses the wind's eerie sound to illustrate how fear can feel threatening yet also protective, fostering warmth inside.
In simple terms: Fearful sounds can feel both threatening and comforting.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that fear can signal safety when faced with the unknown.
Themes
fear
comfort
home
nature
psychology
Mood
reflective
nostalgic
Type
literary
analytical
When to use this quote
- reading literature
- dealing with anxiety
- creating safe spaces
- storytelling
Key Concepts
literature
symbolism
psychological safety
Questions to Reflect On
- How do unsettling sounds affect your sense of safety?
- What personal 'winds' have you turned into comfort?
A Different Perspective
Interpretations may vary; some may see the wind as purely ominous.