Parenting Quote by Fitz-James O'Brien
““Mr. Van Koeren learned with fury that he had become a father two months before the allotted time. During his first paroxysm of rage, on the receipt of intelligence which seemed to confirm all his previous suspicious, it was, I believe, with difficulty that he was prevented from slaying both the innocent causes of his resentment. The caution of his race and the presence of the physicians induced him, however, to put a curb upon his furious will until reflection suggested quite as criminal, if not as dangerous, a vengeance. As soon as his poor wife had recovered from her illness, unnaturally prolonged by the delicacy of constitution induced by previous mental suffering, she was astonished to find, instead of increasing his persecutions, that her husband had changed his tactics and treated her with studied neglect.””
About This Quote
Source Short story: “The Man Who Was Not a Father,” 1865
A man’s rage and neglect toward his wife and child are tempered by reflection and external restraint.
In simple terms: Reflection curbs violent impulses.
Key Takeaway
Practice self‑control and empathy.
Themes
family
anger
reflection
self‑control
Mood
somber
thoughtful
Type
literary
psychological
When to use this quote
- counseling
- conflict resolution
- parenting workshops
Key Concepts
psychology of aggression
marital dynamics
moral choice
Questions to Reflect On
- What triggers your anger?
- How can reflection prevent harm?
A Different Perspective
May simplify complex marital issues.
