Fine line Quote by Philippa Gregory
““see her hesitating at the threshold as if she cannot bear to leave him, and I give her a smile, and I stretch out my hand and rest it lightly on her son’s shoulder, a gentle proprietorial touch. “Good night, Lady Mother,” I say. “Good night from us both.” I let her see me take her son’s fine linen collar in my fingers, the collar she embroidered herself in white-on-white embroidery, and I hold it as if it were the leash of a hunting dog who is wholly mine. For””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory, 2001
A mother’s tender but possessive gesture toward her child reflects complex familial bonds and control.
In simple terms: She offers a gentle, yet controlling, goodbye.
Key Takeaway
Recognize love’s dual nature of care and control.
Themes
family
control
farewell
Mood
intimate
thoughtful
Type
literary
emotional
When to use this quote
- family gatherings
- parent‑child moments
- inheritance disputes
Key Concepts
parental affection
ownership
emotional complexity
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance affection with autonomy?
- When does caring become controlling?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor of a leash may imply unhealthy dominance.
