Man is full of desires: he loves only those who can…
“Man is full of desires: he loves only those who can satisfy them all. "This man is a good mathematician," someone will say. But I have no concern for mathematics; he would take me for a proposition. "That one is a good soldier." He would take me for a besieged town. I need, that is to say, a decent man who can accommodate himself to all my desires in a general sort of way.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People seek others who fulfill all desires; they value utility over character.
In simple terms: Desire drives relationships.
Seek partners who meet your needs.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- friendship selection
- romantic partnership
- professional mentorship
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What qualities beyond utility matter in relationships?
- How can we balance desire with authentic connection?
Focusing solely on utility can lead to superficial connections.