We Have Always Lived in the Castle

by Shirley Jackson

I honestly did not know whether Constance was going to be able to contain herself until he got down the steps and safely into the car.

Then Constance laughed, and I laughed,

I saw Charles in the car turn his head quickly, as though he had heard us laughing,

Haha - punctured his dignity, by being mocked.

“I told you that you would like it on the moon.”

as though supposing that we would come out if there was anything the Carringtons could do for us.

we had new landmarks in the house, just as we had a new pattern for our days.

Haha dignity

in the warm summer days I went barefoot like Jonas.

I was not allowed to go to the long field now,

the house where we lived now, and where we were very happy.

My new magical safeguards

Younger kids play; older kids neck. Resonates with my youth.

Haha

“The least Charles could have done,” Constance said, considering seriously, “was shoot himself through the head in the driveway.”

Haha. Ouch. She has a version of MK’s violent pathology, only milder.

“He didn’t mean it, please.”

“Perhaps he had a good whipping to teach him manners.”

Haha ouch

“I wonder if I could eat a child if I had the chance.” “I doubt if I could cook one,” said Constance.

Haha. Now this is definitely joking. Sweet.

“They have so much to be afraid of.”

But we don’t fear; we have always lived in the castle.

“we are so happy.”