I remembered that the real world was wide, and that a varied field of hopes and fears, of sensations and excitements, awaited those who had the courage to go forth into its expanse, to seek real knowledge of life amidst its perils.
– Charlotte Bronte
Jane Eyre, Chapter 10. Jane is at a crossroads in her life. Living in Lowood School for eight years, she realizes that she has been cut off from the real world. She sees a wide world out there of life knowledge to be learned and sensations to be experienced for those with the courage to venture forth. She speaks metaphorically of the “field of hopes and fears” that await such people.