I am paving hell with energy…I am laying down good intentions which I believe durable as flint.

– Charlotte Bronte

Jane Eyre, Chapter 14. The passionate Rochester says this to Jane during their discussion on sin and redemption. Jane has been telling him that if he wants to reform and correct his imperfections he will. Rochester is alluding to the saying “The road to Hell is paved with good intentions,” meaning that the best of intentions can become corrupted and turn to bad. Good use of metaphor is made by Bronte here with the “Paving hell” image.