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Aye, well, he'll be wed a long time," he said callously…

“Aye, well, he'll be wed a long time," he said callously. "Do him no harm to keep his breeches on for one night. And they do say that abstinence makes the heart grow firmer, no?" "Absence," I said, dodging the spoon for a moment. "AND fonder. If anything's growing firmer from abstinence, it…” quote by Diana Gabaldon
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“Aye, well, he'll be wed a long time," he said callously. "Do him no harm to keep his breeches on for one night. And they do say that abstinence makes the heart grow firmer, no?" "Absence," I said, dodging the spoon for a moment. "AND fonder. If anything's growing firmer from abstinence, it wouldn't be his heart.”

Diana Gabaldon

About This Quote

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

A character suggests that brief separation can intensify desire, but the speaker doubts that abstinence truly strengthens love.

In simple terms: Separation may heighten longing, yet physical desire remains unchanged.

Key Takeaway

Recognize that distance can affect emotions, but love isn’t simply a physical response.

Themes

love desire separation skepticism

Mood

thoughtful skeptical

Type

literary conversational

When to use this quote

  • romantic relationships
  • long-distance communication
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

psychology human relationships emotional dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does distance change your feelings?
  • Is longing always a sign of love?
A Different Perspective

Physical attraction may not align with emotional longing.

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