Meaning: The quote "And now, once again, I bid my hideous progeny go forth and prosper. I have an affection for it, for it was the offspring of happy days, when death and grief were but words, which found no true echo in my heart." is from the preface of Mary Shelley's novel "Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus." This preface was written by Mary Shelley and included in the 1831 edition of the novel.

In this quote, Mary Shelley refers to her novel "Frankenstein" as her "hideous progeny," suggesting a sense of both pride and unease toward her creation. The term "hideous" implies that the novel's content may be disturbing or monstrous, reflecting the themes of the novel itself. By bidding her creation to "go forth and prosper," Shelley may be expressing a desire for her work to be successful and have a lasting impact on its readers.

The phrase "it was the offspring of happy days, when death and grief were but words, which found no true echo in my heart" provides insight into the emotional context in which Shelley wrote "Frankenstein." It suggests that the novel was conceived during a time of relative contentment and emotional distance from the themes of death and grief. This statement is particularly poignant given the personal tragedies that Shelley experienced, including the deaths of her mother, Mary Wollstonecraft, and her husband, Percy Bysshe Shelley.

Shelley's use of the term "progeny" to describe her novel reflects the deep emotional investment she had in her work. It conveys a sense of parental responsibility and care for the creation, as well as a recognition of its potential to grow and make an impact on the world.

The phrase "when death and grief were but words, which found no true echo in my heart" also hints at the themes of mortality, loss, and emotional isolation that are central to the novel. It suggests that the novel emerged from a period of emotional detachment, where the weight of these themes did not fully resonate with Shelley. This contrasts sharply with the intense exploration of these themes within the narrative of "Frankenstein."

Mary Shelley's preface to "Frankenstein" provides valuable insight into her mindset and emotional state at the time of writing, as well as her complex relationship with her own creation. It offers readers a glimpse into the personal and emotional dimensions of the novel's creation, shedding light on the author's intentions and the underlying themes that permeate the story.

In conclusion, Mary Shelley's quote from the preface of "Frankenstein" reflects her deep emotional investment in her work and provides insight into the circumstances surrounding the novel's creation. It reveals the complex mix of pride, affection, and emotional distance that Shelley felt toward her "hideous progeny," offering a glimpse into the personal and creative forces that shaped this iconic work of literature.