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
Let me confess that we two must be twain, although our undivided loves are one.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses the idea that two individuals can remain distinct while sharing a unified love.
In this quote by William Shakespeare, the speaker acknowledges the necessity of individuality ('twain') in a relationship, even as they recognize that their love binds them together into a single entity of affection. It highlights the tension between personal independence and the connection that love creates, suggesting that both aspects are essential for a healthy relationship.
Themes
LoveIndividualityConnectionRelationshipUnity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a wedding speech to emphasize the strength of the couple's bond while acknowledging their individuality.
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Absence doth sharpen love, presence strengthens it; the one brings fuel, the other blows it till it burns clear.
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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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