Poor Things (2023)

Kathryn Hunter: Swiney

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Quotes 

• Swiney : We must work. We must make money. But more than that Bella, we must experience everything. Not just the good, but degradation, horror, sadness. This makes us whole Bella, makes us people of substance. Not flighty, untouched children. Then we can know the world. And when we know the world, the world is ours.

  Bella Baxter : I want that.

  Swiney : Now go and fuck someone and bring me ten francs.

• Swiney : You are an idealist. Like me. How delightful you are. But we must give in to the demands of the world sometimes. Grapple with it. Try to defeat it.

  Bella Baxter : So you believe as me?

  Swiney : Of course. But some men enjoy that you do not like it.

  Bella Baxter : What? That is...

  Swiney : Sick. But good business.

• Bella Baxter : *Bella is working as a prostitute. A male client has just arrived*: Madam Swiney, this lineup system... you really expect me to go upstairs with a man even if I find him distasteful... and therefore am sad when I let him furious-jump me?

  Swiney : That is the way it is, my darling. Gosh, you look pretty. How it agrees with you to be ravaged.

  Bella Baxter : *Speaking to the male client*: So, would you not prefer it if the women chose, as it would be a sign of enthusiasm toward you? You wouldn't have the vague sense that they're in a state of horror when you jump them.

  Swiney : *Madam Swiney and the client speak in French*: Bella is new and may have a mental illness. She doesn't yet understand how things work.

  Bella Baxter : As God, my father, says, it is only the way it is until we discover the new way it is, and then that is the way it is until we discover the new way it is, and so it goes until the world is no longer flat, electricity lights the night, and shoes are no longer tied with ribbons.

  Toinette : Je suis d'accord. As a socialist, I agree entirely. Magnifique.

  Swiney : Toinette, you have such a clever mouth. Monsieur Mersault will enjoy it for free. *Toinette's smile slowly fades*.

• Swiney : You're my favorite!

  Bella Baxter : I've heard you say that to the others.