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And his Soul mocked him and said, "Surely thou hast but…

“And his Soul mocked him and said, "Surely thou hast but little joy out of thy love. Thou art as one who in time of dearth pours water into a broken vessel. Thou givest away what thou hast, and nought is given to thee in return. ...” quote by Oscar Wilde
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““And his Soul mocked him and said, "Surely thou hast but little joy out of thy love. Thou art as one who in time of dearth pours water into a broken vessel. Thou givest away what thou hast, and nought is given to thee in return. ...””

Oscar Wilde

About This Quote

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

The soul laments giving away love without receiving any, likening it to pouring water into a cracked vessel.

In simple terms: Giving love without return feels wasteful.

Key Takeaway

Guard your heart and seek reciprocal love.

Themes

love self‑worth reciprocity emptiness

Mood

melancholic reflective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • friendships
  • creative pursuits
  • emotional boundaries

Key Concepts

emotional labor unrequited affection self‑respect

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you recognize when love is one‑sided?
  • What practices help maintain emotional balance?
A Different Perspective

Some love is selfless and should not be measured.

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