A great empire and little minds go ill together.
Who can know her, and himself, and entertain much hope? Who can see and know such a creature, and not love her to distraction? She has all the softness that does not imply weakness... she is not made to be the admiration of everybody, but the happiness of one.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote speaks to the complexity of love and admiration, emphasizing a deep, personal connection over general admiration.
Edmund Burke's quote highlights the profound nature of love and the intricacies involved in truly knowing someone. It suggests that genuine affection is not about superficial admiration but rather a deep emotional connection that brings happiness to one particular person. The mention of softness that does not imply weakness reflects the strength found in vulnerability, illustrating that true love recognizes and cherishes the unique qualities of an individual over societal expectations.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a wedding speech to celebrate the depth of love shared between partners.
More from Edmund Burke
All quotes →To read without reflecting is like eating without digesting.
Flattery corrupts both the receiver and the giver.
The hottest fires in hell are reserved for those who remain neutral in times of moral crisis.
Society can overlook murder, adultery or swindling; it never forgives preaching of a new gospel.
The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.
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