Kathryn Stockett’s novel The Help is a profound narrative that delves into complex themes of race, gender, and social class in 1960s Mississippi. Through its vivid characters, Stockett offers readers an intimate look into the lives of African American maids working in white households and the resilience they display despite prejudice and inequality. One of the book’s strongest features is its impactful quotes, which echo universal themes of courage, compassion, and the fight for justice. Let’s explore some of the most memorable quotes from The Help and their significance within the story’s context.
1. “You is kind. You is smart. You is important.”
This line, spoken by Aibileen to Mae Mobley, is one of the most famous quotes from The Help. Aibileen, an African American maid, forms a deep connection with Mae, the neglected daughter of her employer, Elizabeth. Despite the social and racial barriers between them, Aibileen takes it upon herself to uplift Mae Mobley and instill self-worth in her, especially since her mother doesn’t provide the love and attention the little girl needs.
This quote embodies the novel’s message of self-empowerment and the importance of positive affirmation. Aibileen’s words become a mantra for Mae Mobley, giving her a sense of identity and resilience, and serve as a reminder to readers about the lasting impact of kindness and encouragement.
2. “A bitter seed was planted inside of me. And I just didn’t feel so accepting anymore.”
This line is significant because it reflects Aibileen’s inner journey and how her perspective on racism evolves. Aibileen has endured years of mistreatment, but the death of her only son and the injustices she sees daily deepen her bitterness toward the societal norms around her. She begins to recognize the power of her voice and ultimately contributes to a revolutionary book revealing the lives and mistreatment of African American maids.
Stockett uses this line to show the shift in Aibileen’s character from quiet endurance to outspoken resistance, and it illustrates a turning point where she can no longer accept things as they are. It resonates with readers as a symbol of awakening and the courage needed to initiate change.
3. “All my life I’d been told what to believe about politics, coloreds, being a girl. But with Constantine’s thumb pressed in my hand, I realized I actually had a choice in what I could believe.”
Skeeter, another central character, is a young white woman who questions the prejudiced beliefs she’s grown up with. Raised by her black nanny Constantine, Skeeter learns empathy and begins to see the unfairness and cruelty of racial segregation. This quote highlights her moment of self-realization when she understands that she can defy societal expectations and choose her beliefs.
Through Skeeter, Stockett portrays the role of introspection in overcoming prejudice. This quote serves as a powerful reminder that individual choices and the courage to question established norms can lead to transformative social change.
4. “Wasn’t that the point of the book? For women to realize, We are just two people. Not that much separates us. Not nearly as much as I’d thought.”
This quote captures the novel’s essence, which is the shared humanity between the white women and the African American maids, despite society’s rigid segregation. Skeeter comes to understand that the lines drawn by racial segregation are artificial and that everyone shares similar struggles, hopes, and fears.
The quote is powerful in its simplicity, as it underlines the potential for unity and empathy once people see beyond the superficial barriers society places between them. This sentiment is timeless, reminding readers that understanding and empathy can bridge even the deepest divides.
5. “I always thought insanity would be a dark, bitter feeling, but it is drenching and delicious if you really roll around in it.”
Miss Celia, a white woman who faces ostracism from the social elite in Jackson, Mississippi, delivers this line. She is an outsider due to her background and lack of “acceptable” Southern propriety, and she feels a kinship with the African American community, who are also outcasts in their own way.
Miss Celia’s words reveal her resilience and refusal to conform, no matter how hard society tries to box her in. Her quote celebrates individuality and embraces one’s true self, no matter how eccentric or unacceptable it may be to others.
6. “Aibileen was my momma. She was like my real momma.”
Mae Mobley’s attachment to Aibileen symbolizes the novel’s themes of unconventional family and chosen love. Mae grows closer to Aibileen than to her own mother, reflecting the powerful bonds formed between caregivers and children, despite racial boundaries.
Mae’s attachment to Aibileen is significant because it demonstrates that love and care can transcend race and societal norms. This quote reminds readers of the importance of the nurturing relationships that shape children’s identities, often outside the boundaries set by conventional family roles.
