The Princess and the Goblin · Chapter
XV: Woven and Then Spun explained
Irene visits her grandmother's chamber, where she is comforted and cleansed by the old lady's magical fire.
What happens
Irene visits her grandmother's chamber, where she is comforted and cleansed by the old lady's magical fire. Her grandmother reveals her youthful beauty and gives Irene a ring with a fire-opal, attaching an invisible thread that will guide her in times of danger. The chapter explores themes of trust, courage, and the nature of true gifts.
Themes in this chapter
Trust and Belief
Irene must trust her grandmother's words about the invisible thread and the ring, despite not being able to see them.
Courage vs. Fear
Irene overcomes her fear of the dark and the long-legged cat by finding safety and reassurance in her grandmother's presence.
Deception and Appearance
The grandmother's youthful appearance contrasts with Irene's earlier perception of her as old, and the invisible thread represents hidden truths.
Characters to notice
- Princess Irene
Visits her grandmother's room, receives the ring and invisible thread, and learns about the magical lamp.
- The Old Lady
Appears as a beautiful young woman, spins the invisible thread, gives Irene the ring, and explains the magic of the lamp.
Key passages
“Come in, Irene.”
Irene's grandmother invites her into the room.
The grandmother's voice guides Irene through the darkness.
“It is a gift born with you. And one day I hope everybody will have it.”
The ability to see the lamp is an innate gift that may become universal.
The grandmother explains the special sight Irene possesses.
“No. The thread is too fine for you to see it. You can only feel it.”
The thread is invisible but tangible.
The grandmother describes the nature of the magical thread.