Skip to content

It is in the capacity to love, that is to SEE, that the…

“It is in the capacity to love, that is to SEE, that the liberation of the soul from fantasy consists. The freedom which is a proper human goal is the freedom from fantasy, that is the realism of compassion. What I have called fantasy, the proliferation of blinding self-centered aims and images, is…” quote by Iris Murdoch
Download Open image
“It is in the capacity to love, that is to SEE, that the liberation of the soul from fantasy consists. The freedom which is a proper human goal is the freedom from fantasy, that is the realism of compassion. What I have called fantasy, the proliferation of blinding self-centered aims and images, is itself a powerful system of energy, and most of what is often called 'will' or 'willing' belongs to this system. What counteracts the system is attention to reality inspired by, consisting of, love.”

Iris Murdoch

About This Quote

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

Love enables true perception, freeing the soul from self‑centered fantasies toward compassionate realism.

In simple terms: Love clears illusion, revealing reality.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate love to see clearly.

Themes

love perception freedom

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • spiritual practice
  • therapy

Key Concepts

compassion realism fantasy willpower

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does love change your view of reality?
  • What fantasies limit your compassion?
A Different Perspective

Love alone may not dissolve deep delusions without action.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Iris Murdoch

Explore all 306 Iris Murdoch quotes

More Age quotes

Browse all 18,948 Age quotes