I think it's great advice! It's not easy to face one's fears, but the only way to get rid of them is to battle through them. Most of the characters in this story had fears to face, and those that faced them fared well.

Good point, DITHOT. I had not thought of it as a pep talk for herself also.

I thought that one of V's greatest fears was the loss of her daughter, the idea that she would no longer rely on her. She didn't seem to realise how she used her daughter as a kind of emotional prop. I wonder if this was more a fear than the black man. But to me, it didn't seem like she faced up to this.

Thanks for posting those quotes DITHOT. I don't have my book and they refreshed my memories. I think what she said to Josephine could be viewed as a pep talk to herself. And I agree with what she told her about facing her fears. Running away doesn't usually solve the problem. Although, in the case of spousal abuse, I think getting away is probably the safest course of action if you are in physical danger. Josephine felt save with Vianne and therefore could stay close and deal with the situation. Regarding the fear of losing her daughter, I think she was in a way, very dependent on their relationship. Kind of a safe harbor to Vianne through all the moving and changes in their lives. Even Vianne needed that bit of security. More to say on Vianne and Anouk, but it's probably an upcoming question?

luvdepp, not a specific question but there will be one on Vianne and her mother so I think we will probably cover Vianne and Anouk in that question. Thanks for asking!

I absolutely agree that Vianne's advice was as much (or more) for herself as it was for Josephine. I don't think it is an accident that she says, "Stay with me instead. Stay and fight with me." instead of "Stay with me and fight."

I think this passage is one of the most telling ones about Vianne's fears and insecurities. She knows the advice she is giving to Josephine is the right advice because she has lived running away all her life, but she is so conflicted about her own motives that she says, "Was this the price of my remaining? To send her out in my place? And what choice had I really given her?"

And when Vianne says, "You have friends here. . .And even if you don't realize it yet, you're strong." she is saying that to herself also. When Josephine finally makes the decision to stay, it is a victory for both women and both will benefit from it.

And it's always easier to give others advice and not do it yourself. .

This is true, Gilly. What's the old saying? Do as I say but not as I do.