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Children Quote by Daphne du Maurier

“The children left him and ran. A pathway led up through the close sapling oaks, and almost at the top of the ascent they encountered Mrs. Lewarne—Linnet. She too had a basket on her arm. Now Johnny might believe in fairies and suchlike, but to Mary Mrs. Lewarne was a vision of all things desirable…” quote by Daphne du Maurier
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““The children left him and ran. A pathway led up through the close sapling oaks, and almost at the top of the ascent they encountered Mrs. Lewarne—Linnet. She too had a basket on her arm. Now Johnny might believe in fairies and suchlike, but to Mary Mrs. Lewarne was a vision of all things desirable in grown-up life—beauty, grace, carriage, a sweet commanding voice, the true accent, clothes, and all delicate appanages of wealth—everything in short that her own little soul aspired after. And yet not too proud to carry a basket!””

Daphne du Maurier

About This Quote

Source Novel: Rebecca, 1938

Johnny admires Mrs. Lewarne as an ideal of adult beauty and grace, seeing her as a symbol of wealth and desirability.

In simple terms: Johnny sees her as a perfect adult figure.

Key Takeaway

Recognize that idealization can mask reality.

Themes

idealization beauty social aspiration class gender roles

Mood

longing admiration reflective

Type

literary character study

When to use this quote

  • adolescent longing
  • social comparison
  • aspirations
  • role models

Key Concepts

social hierarchy self image desire

Questions to Reflect On

  • What qualities do you truly value in role models?
  • How does idealization affect personal growth?
A Different Perspective

Idealizing others can lead to unrealistic expectations.

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