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Better man Quote by Charles Dickens

“The purpose was, that I would go to Biddy, that I would show her how humbled and repentant I came back, that I would tell her how I had lost all I once hoped for, that I would remind her of our old confidences in my first unhappy time. Then, I would say to her, "Biddy, I think you once liked me…” quote by Charles Dickens
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““The purpose was, that I would go to Biddy, that I would show her how humbled and repentant I came back, that I would tell her how I had lost all I once hoped for, that I would remind her of our old confidences in my first unhappy time. Then, I would say to her, "Biddy, I think you once liked me very well, when my errant heart, even while it strayed away from you, was quieter and better with you than it ever has been since. If you can like me only half as well once more, if you can take me with all my faults and disappointments on my head, if you can receive me like a forgiven child (and indeed I am so sorry, Biddy, and have as much need of a hushing voice and a soothing hand), I hope I am a little worthier of you than I was --not much, but a little. And Biddy, it shall rest with you to say whether I shall work at the forge with Joe, or whether I shall try for any different occupation down in this country, or whether we shall go away to a distant place where an opportunity awaits me, which I set aside when it was offered, until I knew your answer. And now, dear Biddy, if you can tell me that you will go through the world with me, you will surely make it a better world for me, and me a better man for it, and I will try hard to make it a better world for you.””

Charles Dickens

About This Quote

Source Novel: Great Expectations, Charles Dickens, 1861

A pleading speaker asks Biddy for forgiveness, support, and partnership, hoping to rebuild his life together with humility and love.

In simple terms: He seeks Biddy's forgiveness and a shared future.

Key Takeaway

Ask for forgiveness and collaborate.

Themes

redemption love partnership humility

Mood

hopeful reflective

Type

romantic dramatic literary

When to use this quote

  • marriage proposal
  • career decision
  • family reconciliation
  • new beginnings
  • seeking support

Key Concepts

Victorian literature personal growth social class

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can humility change a relationship?
  • What risks arise when seeking forgiveness?
A Different Perspective

Biddy's willingness may be limited by social expectations or personal doubts.

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