Someone to lean on.

>[Henry](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/07/Workshop_of_Hans_Holbein_the_Younger_-_Portrait_of_Henry_VIII_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg) [**VIII of England**] needed, however, to trust someone. Behind his bluster there was still the timidity, the uncertainty of a boy who has seen little of the world, who wants to be reassured, to be encouraged, to be told delicately and tactfully what he ought to do next. He never quite outgrew the need for someone to lean on, some affectionate, admiring mentor and guide to protect his self-esteem, and help him in his desires, someone who, living only for him, would enhance his sense of life and still his inner doubts. He was to turn to one such image after another for most of his life, only to fling away from each in outraged indignation when he found the image had a life of its own. That was a great part of his tragedy. _____________________________ **Source:** Mattingly, Garrett. “Part II: England’s Queen (1509-1527); Chapter One, Section ii” *Catherine of Aragon*. New York: Quality Paperback , 1990. 136. Print. _____________________________ **Further Reading:** [Henry VIII of England](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_VIII_of_England)