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Desire is poison at lunch and wormwood at dinner; your bed…

“Desire is poison at lunch and wormwood at dinner; your bed is a stone, friendship is hateful and your fancy is always fixed on one thing.” quote by Pietro Aretino
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“Desire is poison at lunch and wormwood at dinner; your bed is a stone, friendship is hateful and your fancy is always fixed on one thing.”

Pietro Aretino

About This Quote

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

The writer likens desire and relationships to bitter, unfulfilling sustenance.

In simple terms: Desire and friendships feel toxic and unfulfilling.

Key Takeaway

Beware of consuming harmful cravings.

Themes

philosophy satire existential dread

Mood

cynical melancholic

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • self‑reflection
  • mental health counseling

Key Concepts

nihilism psychological torment

Questions to Reflect On

  • What desires poison your life?
  • Can friendships be nourishing instead?
A Different Perspective

The tone is hyperbolic and may not reflect reality.

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