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And, like poor Phaedra, we fall in love not with who we…

“And, like poor Phaedra, we fall in love not with who we want to fall in love with, but with one who moves us, and sometimes it is the last person we should fall in love with. Our involuntary choice is not always the right one, and sometimes it is actually the worst one, hence our suffering. And…” quote by François Lelord
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“And, like poor Phaedra, we fall in love not with who we want to fall in love with, but with one who moves us, and sometimes it is the last person we should fall in love with. Our involuntary choice is not always the right one, and sometimes it is actually the worst one, hence our suffering. And then, of course, there is the completely different situation of the loving people where, over the years, the love they once felt for each other fades and they can't go on. They feel their love dying, but are unable to bring it back to life.”

François Lelord

About This Quote

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

We often fall for those who affect us deeply, even if they are not the best choice, and love can fade despite effort.

In simple terms: We love those who move us, even if it hurts; love can die without revival.

Key Takeaway

Beware of impulsive love and nurture lasting connections.

Themes

love choice pain relationships fading love

Mood

melancholy reflective

Type

philosophical emotional

When to use this quote

  • romantic relationships
  • friendships
  • marriage counseling

Key Concepts

emotional intelligence attachment theory relationship dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives you to choose a partner?
  • How can you revive fading love?
A Different Perspective

Love may be irrational and lead to suffering.

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