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It is easier for an artful Man, who is not in Love, to…

“It is easier for an artful Man, who is not in Love, to persuade his Mistress he has a Passion for her, and to succeed in his Pursuits, than for one who loves with the greatest Violence. True Love hath ten thousand Griefs, Impatiencies and Resentments, that render a Man unamiable in the Eyes of the…” quote by Joseph Addison
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“It is easier for an artful Man, who is not in Love, to persuade his Mistress he has a Passion for her, and to succeed in his Pursuits, than for one who loves with the greatest Violence. True Love hath ten thousand Griefs, Impatiencies and Resentments, that render a Man unamiable in the Eyes of the Person whose Affection he sollicits.”

Joseph Addison

About This Quote

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

A man not in love can more easily convince his lover of passion than a lover who feels intense love, because love brings grief and resentment that can make him seem unpleasant.

In simple terms: It’s easier to fake passion when you’re not truly in love.

Key Takeaway

Beware of false declarations driven by self‑interest.

Themes

love deception emotion relationships integrity

Mood

cautious thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical literary relationship

When to use this quote

  • courtship
  • marriage counseling
  • personal reflection
  • relationship advice
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

psychology social dynamics authenticity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can genuine love be expressed without causing distress?
  • What balance between passion and patience is healthy?
A Different Perspective

True love’s intensity can create negative traits that hinder acceptance.

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