Do you love my title? I have been languishing in the world of the 19th century England of Charlotte Bronte and Jane Austen of late. I close my eyes and imagine myself amongst the elegant high-waisted gowns, satin gloves, carriages, tea times, and English gardens. I am in the midst of reading Vilette, by Charlotte Bronte. How can it be that it has taken me so long to discover this treasure? It started out a bit dry, but I am now totally enthralled. Any excuse to use words like, "languid, endeavoring, fastidious, and hitherto" or phrases like, "where Hope flew before him fast, never alighting so near, or lingering so long, as to give his hand a chance of one realizing grasp." Of course, there's unrequited love and a ghostly nun. I loved Jane Eyre. This novel may be just as good, if not better.
My Dear Friend, Jordyn lent me her copy of Emma (the fabulous adaptation with Gwenyth Paltrow). I watched it last night and had to rewind and watch a few scenes again. The beauty of some of the lines gave me goosebumps and whispered of Truth and Joy. (Don't you just love to capitalize Important Words?) Here are my favorite little gems from the aforesaid movie:
After professing his love and Emma expressing her doubt in her own worthiness, Mr. Knightly says: "Maybe it is our imperfections that make us so perfect for one another." So, so true.
In conversation with her friend Harriet Smith, Emma states: "I hope you know that I only wanted your happiness. Now that you have found it, it makes my own complete." Isn't that perfection?
I am chagrinned to admit that I have not actually read Emma. It is on my list. I just loved the movie so much, I never bothered to read the "real story".
Then, I serendipitously found this post from Conversations With a Cupcake today, replete with Austen and Bronte quotes, and have decided I must try this out. Anyone up for a good girl's night out with some English desserts and a great sappy Austen flick? Jolly good fun. Cheers.
I am! Only, it would be a bit of a drive....
ReplyDeleteI love all of Jane Austen's novels, but I think Pride and Prejudice is by far my favorite. I can find plot elements from her books in just about every modern "chick flick" - she was way ahead of her time!
Thanks for recommending Vilette. How have I not read it yet? I can't wait to go check it out at the library. :)
I love the movie Emma-and I don't think I've read the book either! I've read most of the other Jane Austen's but like you I don't think I've read that one. I'll have to put it on my list.
ReplyDeleteI thrill at the idea! Count me in Dearie. :) I feel so special at being mentioned on your crafty croft blog! Honestly that sounds awesome! Let me know if you need any help!
ReplyDeleteI need to read the classics, someday, I think I will. :) For now I will marvel at your darling, old-English sophistication.
I have all the versions of the Jane Austen movies! If you haven't seen the older BBC version of Emma, you need to check it out! :)
ReplyDeleteThere are some great versions of Persuasion too! :) If you want to know my favorites, email me.
And as for those Leap Frog videos - they are so worth it! I promise!!
wouldnt it be cool if everyone talked like the english lol i have seen the movies but i should read the books.
ReplyDeleteby the way what is that recipe you found for the walnut brownie by applebees. it is my absolute favorite!!