Care Quote by Elizabeth Gaskell
“What could he mean by speaking so, as if I were always thinking that he cared for me, when I know he does not; he cannot. ... But I won't care for him. I surely am mistress enough of myself to control this wild, strange, miserable feeling”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Mary Barton by Elizabeth Gaskell, 1848
She describes inner conflict between desire and rational self‑control, recognizing unreciprocated affection yet refusing to be ruled by it.
In simple terms: She resists unrequited love with self‑discipline.
Key Takeaway
Maintain personal autonomy over emotional turbulence.
Themes
love
self‑control
conflict
independence
Mood
reflective
determined
Type
philosophical
emotional
When to use this quote
- unrequited love
- personal growth
- relationship boundaries
Key Concepts
emotional intelligence
boundaries
self‑respect
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance feeling with self‑respect?
- What boundaries protect you from unhealthy attachment?
A Different Perspective
Emotions may still overwhelm rational decisions.
![“René of Anjou [(1409-80)] painted a picture of his mistress's corpse as he found it eaten by worms on having it [her tomb] openedon his return from a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. This [is] another instance of the strange mixture of religion and gallantry in those ages.” quote by Horace Walpole](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/aba/horace-walpole-3357_age_ren-of-anjou-1409-80-painted-a-picture-o_33917.jpg)
