Yes, I thought it was wonderful,” he lied and looked away…
““Yes, I thought it was wonderful,” he lied and looked away; the sight of her transfigured face was at once an accusation and an ironical reminder of his own separateness. He was as miserably isolated now as he had been when the service began ― more isolated by reason of his unreplenished emptiness, his dead satiety. Separate and unatoned, while the others were being fused into the Greater Being; alone even in Morgana’s embrace ― much more alone, indeed, more hopelessly himself than he had ever been in his life before. He had emerged from that crimson twilight into the common electric glare with a self-consciousness intensified to the pitch of agony. He was utterly miserable, and perhaps (her shining eyes accused him), perhaps it was his own fault. “Quite wonderful,” he repeated; but the only thing he could think of was Morgana’s eyebrow.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Isolation intensifies self‑awareness, turning admiration into painful self‑judgment and longing for connection.
In simple terms: Isolation magnifies self‑critique.
Key Takeaway
Seek authentic connection.
Themes
psychology
existentialism
loneliness
Mood
melancholic
introspective
poetic
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- relationships
- therapy
- creative work
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
self‑consciousness
alienation
Questions to Reflect On
- What does isolation reveal about yourself?
- How can you transform loneliness into growth?
A Different Perspective
Loneliness can distort perception of others.