Whatever the cause, I could not meet his sunshine with…
“Whatever the cause, I could not meet his sunshine with cloud. If this were my last moment with him, I would not waste it in forced, unnatural distance. I loved him well - too well not to smite out of my path even Jealousy herself, when she would have obstructed a kind farewell. A cordial word from his lips, or a gentle look from his eyes, would do me good, for all the span of life that remained to me; it would be comfort in the last strait of loneliness; I would take it - I would taste the elixir, and pride should not spill the cup.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker refuses to let jealousy or forced distance ruin a final, heartfelt farewell, choosing to cherish any kindness offered.
In simple terms: Cherish final moments, avoid jealousy.
Key Takeaway
Embrace genuine connection before it ends.
Themes
love
farewell
jealousy
loneliness
pride
Mood
melancholic
reflective
hopeful
Type
literary
emotional
philosophical
When to use this quote
- final meeting
- family goodbye
- reconciliation
- personal growth
Key Concepts
human connection
emotional honesty
self‑control
Questions to Reflect On
- What would you do to let go of jealousy in a goodbye?
- How can you receive comfort without feeling prideful?
A Different Perspective
Even a small kindness may be tainted by pride or lingering resentment.