He is not a man wedded to action, Boleyn, but rather a man who stands by, smirking and stroking his beard; he thinks he looks enigmatic, but instead he looks as if he's pleasuring himself.
The quote from Hilary Mantel's "Bring Up the Bodies" reflects the perception of a character who is characterized by passive observation rather than decisive action. Instead of being involved or taking initiative, this individual stands back and gives the impression of pondering profound thoughts, but in reality, his demeanor is more comical than serious. His self-satisfaction may suggest a sense of superiority, but it ultimately undermines his image as a cunning strategist.
This depiction invites the reader to consider the nature of power and authority, contrasting the ideals of leadership with the reality of inaction. The way the character is portrayed—stroking his beard and smirking—suggests a disconnect between how he perceives himself and how he is viewed by others. This moment in the narrative highlights themes of observation, manipulation, and the often misguided interpretations of intelligence in political settings.
