I can only note that the past is beautiful because one never realises an emotion at the time. It expands later, and thus we don't have complete emotions about the present, only about the past.
Virginia WoolfRead
We read Charlotte Bronte not for exquisite observation of character - her characters are vigorous and elementary; not for comedy - hers is grim and crude; not for a philosophic view of life - hers is that of a country parson's daughter; but for her poetry. Probably that is so with all writers who have, as she has, an overpowering personality, so that, as we say in real life, they have only to open the door to make themselves felt.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Virginia Woolf emphasizes that we are drawn to Charlotte Bronte not for her character observation or humor, but for her powerful poetic voice.
In this quote, Virginia Woolf reflects on the unique allure of Charlotte Bronte's writing, stressing that it is not her well-crafted characters, comedic elements, or deep philosophical insights that attract readers. Instead, it is her strong poetic essence and overwhelming personality that resonate, suggesting that great writers have a distinct presence that captivates and leaves a lasting impression, much like they do in real-life interactions.
Themes
Charlotte BronteVirginia WoolfLiteraturePoetryWritingPersonality
In practice
Example use cases
During a book club discussion, you could quote Woolf to stress the importance of an author's unique voice.
More from Virginia Woolf
All quotes →Death is woven in with the violets,” said Louis. “Death and again death.”)
Virginia WoolfRead
He began to search among the infinite series of impressions which time had laid down, leaf upon leaf, fold upon fold softly, incessantly upon his brain; among scents, sounds; voices, harsh, hollow, sweet; and lights passing, and brooms tapping; and the wash and hush of the sea.
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I want to think quietly, calmly, spaciously, never to be interrupted, never to have to rise from my chair, to slip easily from one thing to another, without any sense of hostility, or obstacle. I want to sink deeper and deeper, away from the surface, with its hard separate facts.
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I do think all good and evil comes from words. I have to tune myself into a good temper with something musical, and I run to a book as a child to its mother.
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London perpetually attracts, stimulates, gives me a play and a story and a poem, without any trouble, save that of moving my legs through the streets... To walk alone through London is the greatest rest.
Virginia WoolfRead
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