How we cite our quotes: (chapter.paragraph)
Quote #1
The world was to me a secret which I desired to divine. Curiosity, earnest research to learn the hidden laws of nature, gladness akin to rapture, as they were unfolded to me, are among the earliest sensations I can remember. (2.1)
If only Victor had had Google and Wikipedia, maybe he wouldn't have been so obsessed with discovering the secrets of nature.
Quote #2
It was the secrets of heaven and earth that I desired to learn; and whether it was the outward substance of things or the inner spirit of nature and the mysterious soul of man that occupied me, still my inquiries were directed to the metaphysical, or in it highest sense, the physical secrets of the world. (2.4)
No biggie, Victor just wants to know the answer to life, the universe, and everything. (Hint: it's 42.)
Quote #3
I have described myself as always having been imbued with a fervent longing to penetrate the secrets of nature. In spite of the intense labour and wonderful discoveries of modern philosophers, I always came from my studies discontented and unsatisfied. (2.7)
Check out the way that Victor wants to "penetrate the secrets of nature." We can't help thinking that there's something disturbingly sexual in the way Victor talks about nature—like he wants to get it naked.