Charles Dickens: 'It's my old girl that advises. She has the head. But I never own to it before her. Discipline must be maintained.'

It's my old girl that advises. She has the head. But I never own to it before her. Discipline must be maintained.

The quote by Charles Dickens, "It's my old girl that advises. She has the head. But I never own to it before her. Discipline must be maintained," encapsulates the idea of seeking wise counsel while emphasizing the importance of maintaining self-discipline. In straightforward terms, Dickens suggests that he receives valuable guidance from a trusted individual, presumably a woman, whom he refers to as "my old girl." Despite acknowledging her wisdom, he chooses not to openly admit her role in his decision-making process. This quote highlights the significance of seeking advice while recognizing the necessity of personal discipline.However, let us delve deeper into the philosophical implications of this quote. Beyond the literal interpretation, one could argue that Dickens' choice to conceal his source of wisdom and maintain discipline alludes to a broader philosophical concept: the duality of human nature. Throughout history, philosophers have pondered the existence of conflicting forces within individuals, often represented as the struggle between reason and desire, intellect and emotion.In Dickens' quote, "my old girl" symbolizes the rational and wise part of his being, while the decision to not openly acknowledge her represents a desire to maintain control over his actions and decisions. This dichotomy between external counsel and internal discipline raises questions about the nature of human agency and the balance between external influences and personal responsibility.On one hand, seeking advice and guidance from trusted individuals is essential for personal growth and decision-making. It reflects an understanding that no one possesses all the necessary knowledge and experiences to make wise choices independently. Just as Dickens looks to his "old girl" for advice, we, too, benefit from seeking counsel from trusted mentors, friends, or loved ones who possess wisdom and insight beyond our own.However, Dickens' decision to not openly acknowledge his reliance on his advisor also suggests the need for self-discipline and personal responsibility. It brings to mind the concept of autonomy, as individuals must eventually take ownership of their decisions and actions. While external advice can shape our thinking and provide valuable insights, we should not lose sight of the importance of developing our own understanding, weighing different perspectives, and making choices guided by our moral compass.This philosophical concept challenges the idea of relying solely on external guidance or surrendering agency to others. It encourages a balanced approach, where external advice aligns with personal discipline and introspection. It reminds us that while wisdom can be sought externally, personal growth and autonomy require the strength to make difficult decisions and accept responsibility for their outcomes.In conclusion, Charles Dickens' quote provides a thoughtful reflection on the interplay between seeking advice and maintaining self-discipline. While acknowledging the importance of external counsel and the wisdom it can bring, it also advocates for personal responsibility and the need to develop and rely on one's own judgment. This quote serves as a reminder to embrace the duality of human nature, finding harmony between seeking guidance and exercising self-discipline in our decision-making processes.