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Jealous, adj. Unduly concerned about the preservation of…

“Jealous, adj. Unduly concerned about the preservation of that which can be lost only if not worth keeping.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
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“Jealous, adj. Unduly concerned about the preservation of that which can be lost only if not worth keeping.”

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

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

Jealousy is portrayed as an irrational fear of losing something that lacks true value, highlighting the paradox of protecting the inconsequential.

In simple terms: Jealousy misplaces value on the unimportant.

Key Takeaway

Protecting the trivial stems from misplaced fear.

Themes

paradox value perception emotional irrationality psychology of loss human behavior

Mood

ironic critical reflective

Type

aphor observation social commentary

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • career competition
  • social media envy
  • family dynamics
  • collecting hobbies

Key Concepts

self‑esteem attachment perception of worth

Practical Applications

  • self‑awareness training
  • counseling for insecurity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does it mean to protect something that isn’t worth keeping?
  • How can we differentiate genuine concern from jealousy?
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