Mattie Ross: Conviction Incarnate
March is one day away, so to kick off National Women's Month we're shining a light on Mattie Ross, the 14-year-old heroine of Charles Portis's novel, True Grit. Though fictional, young Mattie leaps off the pages with her unwavering conviction and outsize personality. This wonderful moment from the book underscores her matter-of-fact tone and sharp wit: "I have known some horses and a good many more pigs who I believe harbored evil intent in their hearts. I will go further and say all cats are wicked, though often useful. Who has not seen Satan in their sly faces? Some preachers will say, well that is superstitious “clap-trap.” My answer is this: Preacher, go to your Bible and read Luke 8: 26-33."
In the audio clip below, listen as Mattie goes toe-to-toe with Stonehill, the man that sold her father ponies just before his death. She is hell-bent on selling back the ponies and she will not take no for an answer.
