Skip to content

I used to think romantic love was a neurosis shared by…

“I used to think romantic love was a neurosis shared by two, a supreme foolishness. I no longer think that. There's nothing foolish in loving anyone. Thinking you'll be loved in return is what's foolish.” quote by Rita Mae Brown
Download Open image
“I used to think romantic love was a neurosis shared by two, a supreme foolishness. I no longer think that. There's nothing foolish in loving anyone. Thinking you'll be loved in return is what's foolish.”

Rita Mae Brown

About This Quote

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

The speaker shifts from viewing romantic love as a shared neurosis to recognizing that loving without expectation is rational, while expecting love in return is the true folly.

In simple terms: Loving without expecting love is sensible; expecting love is foolish.

Key Takeaway

Love freely, let go of expectations.

Themes

love expectations relationships self‑growth

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

advice inspirational

When to use this quote

  • dating
  • friendships
  • family relationships
  • personal healing

Key Concepts

psychology emotional intelligence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you practice unconditional love?
  • What fears underlie your expectations of love?
A Different Perspective

Expecting reciprocity can cause disappointment.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Rita Mae Brown

Explore all 290 Rita Mae Brown quotes

More Foolish quotes

Browse all 1,867 Foolish quotes