Binding Quote by Washington Irving
“As the vine which has long twined its graceful foliage about the oak and been lifted by it into sunshine, will, when the hardy plant is rifted by the thunderbolt, cling round it with its caressing tendrils and bind up its shattered boughs, so is it beautifully ordered by Providence that woman, who is the mere dependent and ornament of man in his happier hours, should be his stay and solace when smitten with sudden calamity, winding herself into the rugged recesses of his nature, tenderly supporting the drooping head, and binding up the broken heart.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Sketch Book, 1819
Providence arranges women to be supportive partners who, like vines, cling to men during hardship, offering comfort and healing.
In simple terms: Women provide comfort and support in tough times.
Key Takeaway
Lean on supportive relationships.
Themes
support
comfort
gender roles
Providence
dependence
Mood
reflective
nostalgic
empathetic
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- marriage
- friendship
- crisis counseling
- community support
Key Concepts
metaphor
interdependence
resilience
Questions to Reflect On
- How can both partners support each other equally?
- What modern forms of support reflect this metaphor?
A Different Perspective
The view reinforces traditional gender expectations and may overlook mutual independence.
