Writers cannot choose their own mood: with them it is not always hide-tide, nor --thank Heaven!--always Storm.
Charlotte BronteReason sits firm and holds the reins, and she will not let the feelings burst away and hurry her to wild chasms. The passions may rage furiously, like true heathens, as they are; and the desires may imagine all sorts of vain things: but judgment shall still have the last word in every argument, and the casting vote in every decision. Strong wind, earthquake-shock, and fire may pass by: but I shall follow the guiding of that still small voice which interprets the dictates of conscience.
Charlotte BronteJane Austin was a complete and most sensible lady, but a very incomplete and rather insensible (not senseless) woman. If this is heresy, I cannot help it.
Charlotte BronteI have for the first time found what I can truly loveโI have found you. You are my sympathyโmy better selfโmy good angelโI am bound to you with a strong attachment. I think you good, gifted, lovely: a fervent, a solemn passion is conceived in my heart; it leans to you, draws you to my centre and spring of life, wrap my existence about youโand, kindling in pure, powerful flame, fuses you and me in one.
Charlotte Bronte