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The folly of all follies is to be love sick for a shadow.

“The folly of all follies is to be love sick for a shadow.” quote by Alfred Lord Tennyson
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“The folly of all follies is to be love sick for a shadow.”

Alfred Lord Tennyson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Obsessing over an unattainable ideal leads to emotional turmoil.

In simple terms: Love for an illusion causes pain.

Key Takeaway

Seek realistic, healthy relationships.

Themes

love illusion pain self‑knowledge

Mood

melancholic thoughtful

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • unrequited love
  • idealizing partners
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What shadows are you chasing?
  • How can you ground your affection?
A Different Perspective

Idealization can blind you to real opportunities.

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