by Irish author is a 2018 novel, later adapted into a miniseries for Hulu. Set in contemporary Ireland, the story follows the entwined lives of Marianne Sheridan and Connell Waldron, the son of her family’s housekeeper—from their high school days in a small town in County Sligo to their years at Trinity College Dublin. Both characters are acutely intelligent and emotionally complex. Marianne is an outcast with strong opinions and a kind heart, while Connell is popular but self-conscious. Chronicling Marianne and Connell's relationship, Normal People offers a profound exploration of intimacy, insecurities, power dynamics, domestic abuse, the impact of social class on relationships, heartbreak, and personal growth.
Sally Rooney’s nuanced portrayal of human relationships and vulnerability speaks to the complexities of modern life, especially for young adults. Here are 30+ quotes from Normal People to reflect on.
The best quotes from Normal People on love and relationships
"All these years, they've been like two little plants sharing the same plot of soil, growing around one another, contorting to make room, taking certain unlikely positions."
"Being alone with her is like opening a door away from normal life and then closing it behind him."
"He has sincerely wanted to die, but he has never sincerely wanted Marianne to forget about him.”
"That's the only part of himself he wants to protect, the part that exists inside her."
"He often makes blithe remarks about things he 'wishes'. I wish you didn't have to go, he says when she's leaving, or: 'I wish you could stay the night.'"
"She has never believed herself fit to be loved by any person."
"I'm not a religious person but I do sometimes think God made you for me."
"No one can be independent of other people completely, so why not give up the attempt, she thought, go running in the other direction, depend on people for everything, allow them to depend on you, why not."
"She believes Marianne lacks 'warmth,' by which she means the ability to beg for love from people who hate her."
"There's always been something inside her that men have wanted to dominate, and their desire for domination can look so much like attraction, even love."
“Most people go through their whole lives, without ever really feeling that close with anyone."
"He wants to understand how her mind works."
