The Little Stranger

by Sarah Waters

The world seems to be run by scientists and generals, all playing with bombs like so many schoolboys.’

men acquire gallantry, as women acquire lines in their faces.

One upset summons up a crowd of others,

pride doesn’t make for happiness,

I’ve often thought it must be exhausting to be a woman. ’ ‘It is, if you do it properly.

perhaps there is a limit to the grieving that the human heart can do.