As honour, love, obedience, troops of friends, / I must not look to have; but, in their stead, / Curses, not loud but deep, mouth-honour, breath, / Which the poor heart would fain deny, and dare not" (5.3.25-28).
William ShakespeareRead
Ten kisses short as one, one long as twenty.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote illustrates the varying significance of physical affection, emphasizing that the quality of intimacy matters more than the quantity.
William Shakespeare's quote highlights the idea that the depth and quality of a single kiss can far outweigh the significance of multiple brief kisses. It suggests that love and intimacy are not measured by mere physical interaction but by the emotional connection and the passion involved in the act of kissing. In essence, a long, meaningful kiss embodies a richness that numerous quick pecks cannot replicate, inviting reflection on what truly constitutes intimacy in relationships.
Themes
KissesLoveIntimacyAffectionRelationships
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote during a wedding toast to emphasize the significance of deep connection in marriage.
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Lord, Lord, how this world is given to lying!
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Give it an understanding, but no tongue.
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