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Narcissus does not fall in love with his reflection because it is beautiful, but because it is his. If it were his beauty that enthralled him, he would be set free in a few years by its fading.
W. H. Auden
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote suggests that love is deeply rooted in personal connection rather than mere attraction to beauty.

W. H. Auden's quote reflects on the nature of love and self-identity, using the myth of Narcissus as a metaphor. It emphasizes that Narcissus's love for his reflection is not solely based on its beauty, but rather on the connection he feels to it as a part of himself. This illustrates how our affections can often be tied to our own sense of self and possession, indicating that true love involves a deeper understanding that goes beyond superficial admiration.

Themes

LoveSelf-IdentityReflectionBeautyNarcissus

In practice

Example use cases

During a discussion on self-love, this quote can help illustrate why understanding oneself is crucial for healthy relationships.

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