# XV: A Strange Hostess explained — Lilith

> Chapter companion for Lilith by George MacDonald.

## What happens

Mr. Vane travels by moonlight and is guided by a mysterious woman named Mara to her cottage. She offers him shelter, food, and a bed. During the night, he witnesses her sending a white panther-like creature named Astarte on a mission to Bulika. In the morning, Mara gives him directions to Bulika and speaks of the Little Ones, water, and growth.

## Themes in this chapter

### Innocence and Growth

Mara discusses the Little Ones' potential to grow through thirst and water, symbolizing spiritual and physical development.

### Illusion and Reality

Vane's perception of the moon, the cottage appearing in the moon's disc, and the uncertain motions of heavenly bodies highlight the blurred lines between reality and illusion.

## Character check-ins

### Mr. Vane

Travels through the desert, accepts Mara's hospitality, and learns about the Little Ones and the way to Bulika.

### Mara

The mysterious hostess who guides Vane to her cottage, provides shelter, and speaks of the Little Ones and the water beneath.

### The Little Ones

Referred to as Lovers; Mara explains they will grow when they have water and will fill the land.

## Key lines

> It is possible to grow and not to grow, to grow less and to grow bigger, both at once—yes, even to grow by means of not growing!

Growth can be paradoxical; one can become larger by becoming smaller, or develop through apparent stagnation.

_Mara explains the paradoxical nature of the Little Ones' growth._

> When they are thirsty enough, they will have water, and when they have water, they will grow.

The Little Ones will receive water only when their need is great enough, and that water will enable their growth.

_Mara describes the condition for the Little Ones' development._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/lilith_se/chapters/xv-a-strange-hostess
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/lilith_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/lilith_se/chapters