The phrase suggests that a particular woman held a position of reverence or support for those who exist on the edges or boundaries of society—individuals often overlooked, marginalized, or deemed insignificant by mainstream standards. This interpretation highlights her role as an advocate and protector for these individuals.
Exploring further, the quote carries deeper implications about societal structures and how certain people navigate through them. It implies that being a patron saint to those on the periphery means actively working to uplift and empower individuals who are often at risk of being ignored or suppressed by dominant social forces. This role is not just passive but involves active engagement in challenging systemic issues that marginalize specific groups. By choosing to champion these less prominent voices, one becomes an essential figure in fostering inclusivity and equity within society.
Jane Howard, the author of this quote, was a British journalist known for her insightful commentary on social issues. Her work often delved into the lives and challenges faced by marginalized communities, making her observations about patron saints of the peripheral particularly poignant.
