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We always long for the forbidden things, and desire what is denied us.
Francois Rabelais
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote reflects the human tendency to desire what is out of reach or prohibited.

Francois Rabelais captures a fundamental aspect of human nature in this quote: the allure of the forbidden. This desire often stems from our perception that what is denied to us is inherently more valuable or tantalizing, leading to a cycle of longing for that which we cannot have. It serves as a reminder of how our desires can be shaped by limitations and restrictions placed upon us, prompting reflection on the nature of desire itself.

Themes

ForbiddenDesireLongingHuman NatureRestriction

In practice

Example use cases

During a philosophical debate on human desires, one might cite this quote to illustrate the concept of yearning for the unattainable.

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