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You must labour to acquire that great and uncommon talent…

“You must labour to acquire that great and uncommon talent of hating with good breeding, and loving with prudence; to make no quarrel irreconcilable by silly and unnecessary indications of anger; and no friendship dangerous, in care it breaks, by a wanton, indiscreet, and unreserved confidence.” quote by Lord Chesterfield
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“You must labour to acquire that great and uncommon talent of hating with good breeding, and loving with prudence; to make no quarrel irreconcilable by silly and unnecessary indications of anger; and no friendship dangerous, in care it breaks, by a wanton, indiscreet, and unreserved confidence.”

Lord Chesterfield

About This Quote

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

Cultivate refined dislike and cautious love, avoiding needless anger and reckless trust.

In simple terms: Refined emotions, cautious love.

Key Takeaway

Balance passion with prudence.

Themes

etiquette relationships selfcontrol

Mood

thoughtful balanced

Type

philosophical advisory

When to use this quote

  • courtship
  • friendship
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

Emotional intelligence social grace trust

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is restraint harmful?
  • How to trust wisely?
A Different Perspective

Excessive restraint may stifle authenticity.

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