The scapegoat has always had the mysterious power of unleashing man's ferocious pleasure in torturing, corrupting, and befouling.
Francois MauriacRead
The man who partakes in the breaking of the bread dares to build his house on the very core of love. He becomes, as it were, Godlike, but regardless of the strength he derives from it, his free will remains. We are always free to disown this immense grace, to abuse it. The Greatest Love may be betrayed. Fed on the Living Bread, we nevertheless conceal a part of ourselves which longs for swine's food.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the profound nature of love and the complexities of human free will.
Francois Mauriac's quote illustrates the deep spiritual connection one can experience through love, likening this bond to divine grace. However, it acknowledges the inherent struggle of human nature, emphasizing that despite the nourishing presence of love—symbolized as 'the Living Bread'—individuals possess the freedom to reject or misuse this gift, revealing the tension between our higher aspirations and base desires.
Themes
LoveFree WillGraceBetrayalHuman Nature
In practice
Example use cases
During a wedding speech, one might use this quote to highlight the essence of love's strength and challenges.
More from Francois Mauriac
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Where does discipline end? Where does cruelty begin? Somewhere between these, thousands of children inhabit a voiceless hell.
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