If I were you, Mr. Lascelles," said Childermass, softly…
““If I were you, Mr. Lascelles," said Childermass, softly, "I would speak more guardedly. You are in the north now. In John Uskglass's own country. Our towns and cities and abbeys were built by him. Our laws were made by him. He is our minds and hearts and speech. Were it summer you would see a carpet of tiny flowers beneath every hedgerow, of a bluish-white colour. We call them John’s Farthings. When the weather is contrary and we have warm weather in winter or it rains in summer the country people say that John Uskglass is in love again and neglects his business. And when we are sure of something we say it is as safe as a pebble in John Uskglass’s pocket.” Lascelles laughed. “Far be it from me, Mr. Childermass, to disparage your quaint country sayings. But surely it is one thing to pay lip-service to one’s history and quite another to talk of bringing back a King who numbered Lucifer himself among his allies and overlords? No one wants that, do they? I mean apart from a few Jihannites and madmen?” “I am a North Englishman, Mr. Lascelles,” said Childermass. “Nothing would please me better than that my King should come home. It is what I have wished for all my life.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A character warns that invoking ancient myths and legends can be dangerous, as they may conceal hidden powers and political risks.
In simple terms: Beware of reviving old myths for political gain.
Key Takeaway
Question the motives behind resurrecting past powers.
Themes
mythology
politics
danger
power
history
Mood
cautious
reflective
skeptical
Type
warning
political
literary
When to use this quote
- political rhetoric
- historical revivalism
- storytelling
- national identity
Key Concepts
cultural memory
authority
nationalism
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the hidden costs of invoking ancient legends?
- How can societies balance heritage with present safety?
A Different Perspective
Reviving myths can empower dangerous forces and destabilize societies.