Meaning: The quote "My heart burnt within me with indignation and grief; we could think of nothing else. All night long we had only snatches of sleep, waking up perpetually to the sense of a great shock and grief. Every one is feeling the same. I never knew so universal a feeling." by Elizabeth Gaskell, a renowned novelist, captures the intense emotions of indignation and grief experienced during a time of great shock and sorrow. This powerful expression reflects the universal sentiment of profound distress and empathy that transcends individual experiences to encompass a collective sense of anguish and sorrow.

Elizabeth Gaskell, an influential Victorian writer, is known for her insightful portrayal of social and moral issues in her novels. Her ability to articulate deep emotions and societal concerns is evident in this quote, as she vividly depicts the overwhelming impact of a distressing event on individuals and the wider community.

The phrase "My heart burnt within me with indignation and grief" conveys a visceral and deeply personal response to a troubling situation. The use of the word "burnt" suggests an intense, consuming emotional reaction, while "indignation" reflects a sense of righteous anger or outrage in response to perceived injustice or suffering. This combination of emotions illustrates the profound impact of the event, evoking a powerful sense of empathy and concern.

The mention of "all night long we had only snatches of sleep, waking up perpetually to the sense of a great shock and grief" paints a picture of restless and disturbed sleep, punctuated by the persistent awareness of the overwhelming sorrow and disbelief caused by the event. This portrayal of sleeplessness and constant awakening to the weight of the grief highlights the all-encompassing nature of the emotional turmoil experienced by the narrator and others affected.

The line "Every one is feeling the same" emphasizes the universality of the emotional response, suggesting that the distress and sorrow extend beyond individual experiences to become a shared and collective sentiment. This recognition of a widespread, shared emotional state underscores the depth of the impact and the sense of solidarity in facing the aftermath of the distressing event.

The concluding statement, "I never knew so universal a feeling," further underscores the profound and far-reaching nature of the emotional response. Gaskell's reflection on the unprecedented universality of the feeling conveys the extraordinary and exceptional nature of the collective grief and indignation experienced, leaving a lasting impression of the unprecedented nature of the event.

In conclusion, Elizabeth Gaskell's quote powerfully captures the intensity of emotional response to a distressing event, conveying a sense of deep indignation and grief that transcends individual experiences to become a universal sentiment. Through her evocative language and poignant portrayal of collective emotional turmoil, Gaskell skillfully articulates the profound impact of such events on individuals and communities, leaving a lasting impression of the enduring and universal nature of human empathy and sorrow.