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Briar-rose Quote by Anne Sexton

“She married the prince and all went well except for the fear — the fear of sleep. Briar Rose was an insomniac... She could not nap or lie in sleep without the court chemist mixing her some knock-out drops and never in the prince's presence.” quote by Anne Sexton
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““She married the prince and all went well except for the fear — the fear of sleep. Briar Rose was an insomniac... She could not nap or lie in sleep without the court chemist mixing her some knock-out drops and never in the prince's presence.””

Anne Sexton

About This Quote

Source Poem: “Briar Rose” from The Book of Fol and, 1971

A twisted fairy‑tale where the princess fears sleep, symbolizing anxiety and loss of control.

In simple terms: Fear of sleep reflects deeper anxieties.

Key Takeaway

Address underlying fears to regain agency.

Themes

fear sleep control

Mood

somber reflective

Type

poetic psychological

When to use this quote

  • therapy
  • creative writing
  • nighttime routines

Key Concepts

psychology mythology anxiety

Questions to Reflect On

  • What personal fears manifest in daily life?
  • How can creative expression help process anxiety?
A Different Perspective

Sleep is essential; fear may be irrational.

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