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
These violent delights have violent ends And in their triumph die, like fire and powder, Which as they kiss consume. The sweetest honey Is loathsome in his own deliciousness And in the taste confounds the appetite. Therefore love moderately; long love doth so; Too swift arrives as tardy as too slow.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote advises moderation in love to prevent destructive outcomes.
William Shakespeare's quote warns that extreme passions can lead to disastrous consequences, suggesting that love should be approached with moderation. The imagery of fire and powder highlights how intense emotions can quickly lead to turmoil, while the notion that even the sweetest experiences can become overwhelming emphasizes the need for balance in relationships to ensure longevity and happiness.
Themes
LoveModerationPassionBalanceRelationships
In practice
Example use cases
A wedding speech emphasizing the importance of balanced love.
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