My father and mother were second cousins, though they did not meet till shortly before their marriage.

In this quote, Patrick White provides a personal insight into his family background, revealing that his father and mother were second cousins, but did not meet until shortly before their marriage. By sharing this detail, White highlights an unusual or potentially unconventional aspect of his family's heritage and ancestry. The fact that his parents were related, yet only met later in life, adds an element of intrigue and complexity to their personal history.

White's mention of their relationship could also be seen as a subtle commentary on the nature of family and relationships. By focusing on the fact that his parents did not meet until adulthood, he may be pointing to the idea that even in situations that might seem predestined or rooted in family connections, personal relationships can still evolve in unexpected ways. This suggests that while ancestry and family ties play a significant role in shaping one’s life, the development of a relationship is often more about timing and individual choices.

In the context of Patrick White’s life and work, the reference to his parents' relationship could also serve as an illustration of the unconventional or complex nature of family dynamics, which often feature in his literary works. As an acclaimed Australian novelist, White frequently explored themes of identity, heritage, and relationships, and this detail about his parents may reflect the intricate, often unpredictable nature of personal histories.

Ultimately, the quote reveals an interesting aspect of White’s own family history, while subtly suggesting that relationships and personal connections are shaped by a variety of factors, including timing, heritage, and individual choice. It underscores the complexity of familial relationships and the way these dynamics can unfold in unexpected and meaningful ways.