The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion: Vol. 4

by Beth Brower

I’m studying up on Latin phrases.” “Such as?” “Credo quia absurdum.” “What does that mean?” “I believe because it is absurd.” Mary considered the phrase a long moment, then said, “Yes, I’d say that just about describes your life.” To which I answered, “Veritas.”

running his hand flat over his head, deflating the less than enthusiastic hairs attempting survival.

“I approve. I could be happy staring at such a husband. You should marry him. We can spend our shooting weekends staring at your husband while mine pays the bill.”

I asked my formidable and possibly immortal-for-all-the-wrong-reasons relation.

An appearance of pleasing stupidity prepares a woman for marriage.

“Strange is that unexpected moment that stays with you, that makes you think about it again. Strange is memorable, and compelling.”

“LET HIM BE TO THEE FOR EVER A SORT OF BEAUTIFUL ENEMY, UNTAMABLE, DEVOUTLY REVERED, AND NOT A TRIVIAL CONVENIENCY TO BE SOON OUTGROWN AND CAST ASIDE.”

“When one knows their ignorance is less than flattering, better not to put it on altogether.”

My attitude was that of Macbeth: “It would be best to get it over with quickly.”

“You are wise in this thing. However, if the right man should come along, and money looks more like love than one would initially suppose, don’t turn your back on a chance for happiness merely because he has the means to save you.” It was the most fiscally romantic thing I had ever heard.

To compose oneself—such a strange phrase. As if one were a musical score. If I were, what would I be? Emma M. Lion in D Minor?

Is it immoral to marry a man solely to gain a library? And if that man happens to be tremendously good looking, is it more or less of a sin?

What if there are thousands walking about London having just missed the one with whom they could chatter away with, or walk with in contented silence? It’s an unhappy thought, but what if it’s true?

“Of course I’m coming with you. Don’t be daft. My friends do not go to war alone.”

Bless a man who knows how to keep his own counsel when you can’t bear to speak.