DISCLAIMER: Moderate spoilers abound for Syfy’s The Magicians, specifically for the character of Margo Hanson. If you’re not caught up, then what are you waiting for? No time like a quarantine to binge watch away!
Now, I don’t know about you, but I’m finding it increasingly difficult to stay productive while in self-isolation. Even writing, which is what I do, can seem more like a chore than a task I sincerely enjoy. I’m a self-diagnosed TV addict who’s wallowing through depressive and anxiety-riddled muck. Who also has no filter. Anyway, we tend to dive headfirst into our creature comforts when confined to our homes. Like Netflix. Sweatpants. An overabundance of blankets and coffee. Who needs productivity when you can lounge in luxurious comfort?
Thankfully, when I’m feeling particularly sluggish or in need of a motivational boost I turn to none other than Margo Hanson, The Magicians resident High King of Getting Sh*t Done. She may be unabashedly blunt with a penchant for colorful language, but there’s no doubt that she knows exactly what to say to light a fire under one’s bum.
Below, I’ve listed my favorite Margo quotes meant to do just that: boost your morale, invigorate your soul and, more importantly, totally light your a** on fire.
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‘Cause I’m about ready to go full ’07 Britney.
Granted, Britney Spears went through the ringer in 2007. I’m not making light of her experiences, and I don’t believe Margo was either when she said this. Margo was itching to take on a formidable foe threatening Fillory, the realm she swore to protect. She was willing to fight tooth and nail for her people. Don’t think of this as a “breaking point” line, but rather a war cry. If your loved ones were in the line of fire, wouldn’t you do anything to save them? Never lose that selfless spirit and the urge to protect. More importantly, especially now, never shy away from fortifying and caring for yourself.
And now we are going to put our Jimmy Choo so far up your a** you’re going to taste next season.
What an innovative way of giving someone the figurative middle finger! Now, I’m not saying you waltz into your next Zoom work conference with this exact line, but you can maintain that sentiment on a more subtle level. Remember your power. Hold fast to it. Remind yourself that you’re in control of your destiny. Don’t allow those unworthy of your attention to use you as a doormat.
Don’t cock out on me. I would have said pussy, but let’s be honest – which one is stronger?
According to my limited knowledge of biology, women carry buns in the oven. After nine months, when the buns are cooked to perfection, said buns are ejected from the oven. So, I reiterate Margo’s question: which one is stronger? I’m gonna go with the latter on this one. Courage and strength aren’t dependent on genitalia or gender, for that matter. So, don’t demean yourself or let others belittle you because you don’t have a sword. Besides, the pen is mightier than the sword anyway. Right?
Quick alternative pitch: take the gun with a god-killing bullet and shoot the f*cking monster in the face.
Sometimes the best strategy is one of simplicity. Remember the KISS method? “Keep it simple, stupid.” Well, don’t call people “stupid,” but you get the gist. Always maintain a level head, even in the direst of circumstances. Be pragmatic. Being rational goes a long way.
Yeah, we’re really civilizing them. What should we teach them next? To outlaw abortion? Women don’t want to work? Wage gaps? Thigh gaps?
That’s my girl, Margo. Never shying away from knocking the patriarchy off its pedestal. If you witness injustices – whether they’re related to misogyny, racism, ableism, etc. – don’t be afraid to call them out. Everyone deserves to live their lives in a fair, just society. If you feel persecuted, especially in the workplace, keep those naysayers in check. Be like Margo. Stand up for what’s right.
I’m a very smart, very liberated woman.
Yes, you are! Now, Margo said this line in reference to her sexual inclinations, but this can apply to anything. You are smart. You are liberated. Recognize it. Embrace it. Revel in it.
I chose [to be High Queen]. And I have had to fight for every shred of authority. And no offense, but you can’t understand because it was handed to you.
We’ve all seen it – someone more privileged getting ahead in life due to their societal status. The color of their skin. Their gender, for that matter. In this case, Eliot was crowned High King because it was mapped out in his destiny. On the other hand, Margo clawed her way to the top, earning her crown in the process. Yes, hard work usually pays off. It “builds character” as our elders tell us. However, when two people are in the same position and one is given preferential treatment over the other, then there’s a problem. We’re all worthy of our aspirations. We all deserve a fair shot at attaining our dreams. Never lose sight of that.
My crown is just as heavy as yours.
There’s nothing wrong with acknowledging the many challenges you’ve faced – if anything, they’re a reminder of just how far you’ve come. Granted, Margo here is telling Eliot that she too has encountered obstacles while ruling Fillory. I think this also applies to people in leadership positions. Every choice you make can have lasting effects. Leading can be burdensome in general. However, remind yourself that if anyone can do it, then you can too.
Ovary up!
If there’s one thing we know about Margo (besides her unencumbered sexual inclinations), it’s that she is woman, and she will roar. She is the epitome of female empowerment. We’re capable of anything (Even murder! But please, refrain from killing at this time.). Let this be your battle cry – fortify yourself. Brace yourself for impact. Stir up the courage necessary to forge ahead.
I’m a king. Not a goddamn princess.
You heard it here first, folks. I plucked this quote from Margo’s questing episode in Season 4. “All That Hardy, Glossy Armor” is easily in my top five favorite episodes of The Magicians. Margo’s arc culminated into something visceral and raw. Not to mention, it should have been Summer Bishil‘s Emmys submission. It delved into the obstacles that strong women face everyday – if you’re too straightforward, you come off as a b*tch. On the flip side, if you’re angry or emotional, you come off as weak. There are so many caveats in place when it comes to what’s considered “acceptable” on the female emotional spectrum in the eyes of society.
But you know what? Throw all that out the window. People can be more than one thing. We can be angry, and still be strong. We can be vulnerable, and still be strong. Humans are multifaceted creatures, and that’s what makes us so unique. Remember your worth. Know that you are in fact a king. You’re powerful in your own right.
RELATED: Read all THE MAGICIANS recaps here!
Do you have any favorite Margo quotes? Sound off in the comments below, Fillorians!
This article was originally posted 4/17/20
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What I do: I'm GGA's Managing Editor, a Senior Contributor, and Press Coordinator. I manage, contribute, and coordinate. Sometimes all at once. Joking aside, I oversee day-to-day operations for GGA, write, edit, and assess interview opportunities/press events.
Who I am: Before moving to Los Angeles after studying theater in college, I was born and raised in Amish country, Ohio. No, I am not Amish, even if I sometimes sport a modest bonnet.
Bylines in: Tell-Tale TV, Culturess, Sideshow Collectibles, and inkMend on Medium.
Critic: Rotten Tomatoes, CherryPicks, and the Hollywood Creative Alliance.
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