10 Memorable Quotes From "The Help" | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Entertainment

10 Memorable Quotes From "The Help"

"This could be one of the most important pieces of fiction since 'To Kill A Mockingbird'If you read only one book…let this be it." -NPR.org

5464
10 Memorable Quotes From "The Help"

In This Article:

Trying to find the book genre that appealed to me was difficult growing up. I was never the type of guy to seek out a sci-fi or mystery novel, and it wasn't until early high school that I discovered that I truly enjoy historical fiction novels. In fact, anyone who really knows me knows that my favorite book to read is "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett. After reading this novel a second time over the summer, I picked up on a few things that I hadn't the first time around and rediscovered why I fell in love with all of the characters. It was difficult to pick, but I selected 10 of my favorite and most memorable quotes (not in any particular order) that make this book unforgettable.

1. “Ever morning, until you dead in the ground, you gone have to make this decision. You gone have to ask yourself, "Am I gone believe what them fools say about me today?”

Giphy

This quote proved to be an overarching theme throughout the novel and was applicable to a majority of characters. Each went through their own type of struggle internally and externally.

2. “Mother calls up the stairs to ask what in the world I'm typing up there all day and I holler down, 'Just typing up some notes from the Bible study. Just writing down all the things I love about Jesus.” 

Giphy

I cannot help but giggle at this sassy statement made by Skeeter to her mother, Charlotte. Skeeter had her mother convinced that she was going to bible lessons when in reality she was going to Aibileen's home to work on the book.

3. “You is kind. You is smart. You is important.”

Giphy

Okay, I admit it, I teared up during this part in the book and movie. Whenever these two were in private, Aibileen made sure to tell stories about love and acceptance to Mae Mobley (and of course, this famous line).

4. "I'd hit him over the head with a skillet, and I'd tell him to go straight to hell."

Minny is easily one of my favorite characters in this book because she represents to me what it means to be a protective, caring, and concerned parent. She puts on a face of power and authority and witnessing her take any abuse from her husband is like watching a teacher cry for the first time. This piece of advice might sound helpful to Miss Ciela but she doesn't fully understand the reasons why Minny stays Leroy.

5. “I say ‘That good vanilla from Mexico’ and then I go head. I tell her what else I put in that pie for her.”

Giphy

Ah, yes. One of the most iconic scenes in literary and cinematic history. For those of you who haven't read the book or watched the movie, I'm sorry. You're missing out.

6. "A bill that requires every white home to have a separate bathroom for the colored help. I've even notified the surgeon general of Mississippi to see if he'll endorse the idea.” 

Giphy

Without a doubt, Miss Hilly Holbrook is this book's version of the "Harry Potter" character, Dolores Umbridge. As one of the antagonists of this novel, she represents a society of ignorance and hatred towards anyone who doesn't look or act just like her.

7. “It seems like at some point you'd run out of awful.”

Giphy

Oh, but not for "Two-slice Hilly." There are so many moments throughout the book where the reader is left to wonder, "Did she really just do that?" Just when you least expect it, Hilly has another trick hiding in that flipped-bob hairstyle of hers.

8. "Write about what disturbs you, particularly if it bothers no one else."

Giphy

Skeeter did not want to be stuck writing cleaning columns and dreamed of writing a novel one day. She got into contact with the Junior League editor, Elaine Stein and she told Skeeter to write about something that bothers nobody else. This sparked the inspiration for Skeeter to start her book.

9. “He needs "space" and "time," as if this were physics and not a human relationship.”

Giphy

Skeeter's relationship with men is practically non-existent until she goes on a blind date with Stuart. Their relationship is rocky throughout the book and this quote from Skeeter perfectly puts that dynamic into perspective.

10. “The book is not about Jackson!”

Giphy

Because of content covered in number five, this sentence insured that Hilly Holbrook would inform everyone that the book filled with testimonies from the help was not about anyone from Jackson. As Minny puts it, "...But don't you see? She's going to her grave convincing folks this book ain't about Jackson. Now that keeps us safe. Insured."

I hope you enjoyed this article! Feel free to tell me some of your favorite parts from this book.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Taylor Swift in orange dress playing a moss-covered piano on stage with bright lights.

A three-and-a-half-hour runtime. Nine Eras. Eleven outfit changes. Three surprise songs. Zero breaks. One unforgettable evening. In the past century, no other performer has put on an electric performance quite like Taylor Swift, surpassing her fans ‘wildest dreams’. It is the reason supporters keep coming back to her shows each year. Days later, I’m still in awe of the spectacle ‘Miss Americana’ puts on every few days in a new city. And, like one of Taylor’s exes, has me smiling as I reminisce about the memories of the night we spent together.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

24843
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

10361
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

7599
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments