# XXVI: “It’s Mother!” explained — The Secret Garden

> Chapter companion for The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett.

## What happens

Susan Sowerby appears in the secret garden, warmly embracing Mary, Colin, and Dickon. She reassures Colin that he resembles his mother and that his father will return. Colin, growing stronger, realizes his health has fully returned and exults in his newfound vitality, declaring he will live forever and discover countless things.

## Themes in this chapter

### Healing Power of Nature

The garden and outdoor work contribute to Colin's physical recovery, as seen in his stronger legs and overall health.

### Transformation and Growth

Colin's realization of his full health and his exultant declaration of living forever mark a profound personal transformation.

### Friendship and Connection

Susan Sowerby's warm embrace and the children's bond with her highlight the theme of nurturing connection.

## Character check-ins

### Mary Lennox

Mary walks with Colin to meet Susan Sowerby and feels her pulse beat faster. She is told she will grow up to be like a blush rose.

### Colin Craven

Colin meets Susan Sowerby, expresses his wish for her to be his mother, and later realizes he is fully well, standing tall and exultant in the garden.

### Dickon Sowerby

Dickon brings his mother to the secret garden, his eyes lighting like lamps when she appears.

### Mrs. Sowerby

Susan Sowerby enters the garden, comforts Colin and Mary, and reassures Colin that his father will return.

### Ben Weatherstaff

Ben observes Colin's improved legs and shoulders, commenting on his growth.

## Key lines

> It’s Mother!

Dickon exclaims joyfully upon seeing his mother enter the secret garden.

_This moment marks the introduction of maternal warmth into the children's world._

> I’m well! I’m well!

Colin realizes and shouts that he is completely healthy.

_This is a pivotal moment of self-awareness and triumph over his former illness._

> I shall live forever and ever and ever!

Colin declares his newfound belief in his own immortality and endless discovery.

_This reflects his exuberant confidence in the Magic and his future._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_secret_garden_se/chapters/xxvi-it-s-mother
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_secret_garden_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_secret_garden_se/chapters