How we cite our quotes: (Part.Section.Paragraph)
Quote #7
'I had fallen in love with Julian.' The words are easily written down. But how to describe the thing itself? It is odd that falling in love, though frequently mentioned in literature, is rarely adequately described. It is after all an astounding phenomenon and for most people it is the most astonishing event that ever happens to them: more astonishing, because more counter-natural, than life's horrors. (2.1.2)
Would Bradley Pearson count himself among the people for whom falling in love is "the most astonishing event that ever happens to them," or would he say that a more astonishing event has happened in his life?
Quote #8
Some readers may feel that what I am describing is a condition of insanity, and in a way this is true. Were it not reasonably common, men could surely be locked up for such a change of consciousness. However it is one of the peculiarities, perhaps one of the blessings, of this planet that anyone can experience this transformation of the world. (2.1.5)
Not only does Bradley Pearson's newfound love for Julian Baffin alter his perception of himself, but it changes the world for him, too. Through his feelings for Julian, everything is transformed. Maybe that's why it feels to him like he's communing with the "godhead."
Quote #9
Can any love doubt that now he sees truly? And is the possessor of this enlivened vision not really more like God than like a madman? (2.1.5)
There are multiple moments throughout The Black Prince when Bradley Pearson suggests that the wisdom and insight that come from being in love makes men more like gods than regular human beings. What do you make of this, Shmoopers? Is this a classic case of pride coming before a fall, or does Bradley's relationships with Julian and then with P. Loxias suggest that he may be on to something here?