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Irishwoman Margaret Quote by Dorothy Dunnett

“And as he followed after the Irishwoman, Margaret Erskine, most levelheaded of women, picked up a Palissy vase, looked at it earnestly and smashed it clean on the floor.” quote by Dorothy Dunnett
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““And as he followed after the Irishwoman, Margaret Erskine, most levelheaded of women, picked up a Palissy vase, looked at it earnestly and smashed it clean on the floor.””

Dorothy Dunnett

About This Quote

Source Novel: The House of Niccolò, Dorothy Dunnett, 1962

A woman’s composure leads her to destroy a cherished object in a moment of intense focus.

In simple terms: Calmness can cause sudden, decisive action.

Key Takeaway

Balance composure with caution.

Themes

self‑control destruction focus decision‑making

Mood

dramatic thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • conflict resolution
  • art restoration
  • stress management
  • creative problem solving

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology literary analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives you to act decisively?
  • When is decisive action necessary?
A Different Perspective

Impulsive acts may have unintended consequences.

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