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A transient wish crossed his mind; that he could have…

“A transient wish crossed his mind; that he could have stayed around and introduced her to the innocent pleasures of... But the devil with innocent pleasures. He dropped his head back against the wooden settle, closing his eyes. His feelings about Princess Field Mouse were as guilty as sin. He…” quote by Laura Kinsale
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““A transient wish crossed his mind; that he could have stayed around and introduced her to the innocent pleasures of... But the devil with innocent pleasures. He dropped his head back against the wooden settle, closing his eyes. His feelings about Princess Field Mouse were as guilty as sin. He wasted a few moments in imagining a warm bed and his head pillowed on her delightfully plump breasts. His lust for her was the most peculiar emotion, unlike anything a female had ever before inspired in him: a sort of passion for peace, a ferocious itch to have her and the bizarre impression that he'd somehow gain serenity from the act, that he could lose himself in her as if she were some primal element: a pathless forest or an endless plain instead of a chubby girl.””

Laura Kinsale

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A man wrestles with forbidden desire, equating sexual longing with a yearning for peace and escape.

In simple terms: He feels lust as a strange, peaceful craving.

Key Takeaway

Recognize when desire masks deeper needs.

Themes

desire conflict peace morality

Mood

conflicted intense

Type

literary psychological

When to use this quote

  • romantic relationships
  • self‑reflection
  • intimate encounters

Key Concepts

psychology sexuality spirituality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does his longing reveal about his inner turmoil?
  • Can desire be a path to serenity?
A Different Perspective

The narrative may romanticize harmful power dynamics.

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