We would have every arbitrary barrier thrown down. We would have every path laid open to woman as freely as to man.
Margaret FullerRead
It seems that it is madder never to abandon one's self than often to be infatuated; better to be wounded, a captive and a slave, than always to walk in armor.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Embracing vulnerability is preferable to living guarded or without true emotional engagement.
The quote by Margaret Fuller suggests that it is more foolish to shield oneself too strictly from emotional pain than to risk being deeply involved with others. It implies that while infatuation may lead to heartache, the true madness lies in living one's life in constant defense, missing out on genuine connections and experiences.
Themes
VulnerabilityLoveEmotionArmorConnection
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can inspire a discussion on the importance of emotional openness in a relationships seminar.
More from Margaret Fuller
All quotes βI fear I have not one good word to say this fair morning, though the sun shines so encouragingly on the distant hills and gentle river and the trees are in their festive hues. I am not festive, though contented. When obliged to give myself to the prose of life, as I am on this occasion of being established in a new home I like to do the thing, wholly and quite, - to weave my web for the day solely from the grey yarn.
Margaret FullerRead
Plants of great vigor will almost always struggle into blossom, despite impediments. But there should be encouragement, and a free genial atmosphere for those of more timid sort, fair play for each in its own kind.
Margaret FullerRead
Two persons love in one another the future good which they aid one another to unfold.
Margaret FullerRead
It was not meant that the soul should cultivate the earth, but that the earth should educate and maintain the soul.
Margaret FullerRead
I now know all the people worth knowing in America, and I find no intellect comparable to my own.
Margaret FullerRead
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