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...It often seemed to her that she thought too much about herself, you could have made her blush any day of the year, by telling her she was selfish. She was always planning out her own development, desiring her own perfection, observing her own progress. Her nature had for her own imagination a certain garden-like quality, a suggestion of perfume and murmuring bows, of shady bowers and of lengthening vistas, which made her feel that introspection was, after all, an exercise in the open air, and that a visit to the recesses of one's mind was harmless when one returned from it with a lapful of roses.
by Henry James
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The character experiences a sense of self-awareness and introspection that often borders on self-absorption. She is conscious of her desire for personal growth and perfection, and any criticism of selfishness would deeply affect her. Her thoughts frequently revolve around her progress and development, indicating a keen interest in her own identity.

Despite her preoccupation with herself, she views this introspection with a certain appreciation. She imagines her mind as a beautiful garden, suggesting that exploring her thoughts is a refreshing and rewarding endeavor. This metaphorical landscape of her imagination makes her journey into self-reflection feel like a pleasant outdoor excursion, enriching her experience with insights she gathers along the way.

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The Portrait of a Lady
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