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To hide a passion totally (or even to hide, more simply…

“To hide a passion totally (or even to hide, more simply, its excess) is inconceivable: not because the human subject is too weak, but because passion is in essence made to be seen: the hiding must be seen: I want you to know that I am hiding something from you, that is the active paradox I must…” quote by Roland Barthes
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“To hide a passion totally (or even to hide, more simply, its excess) is inconceivable: not because the human subject is too weak, but because passion is in essence made to be seen: the hiding must be seen: I want you to know that I am hiding something from you, that is the active paradox I must resolve: at one and the same time it must be known and not known: I want you to know that I don't want to show my feelings: that is the message I address to the other.”

Roland Barthes

About This Quote

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

Passion cannot be fully concealed because its very nature demands visibility, creating a paradox where the act of hiding signals its existence.

In simple terms: Passion must be seen, hiding reveals it.

Key Takeaway

Accept that hiding reveals truth.

Themes

identity visibility paradox communication

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • artistic expression
  • political discourse
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

psychology social signaling authenticity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does concealment affect trust?
  • When is secrecy justified?
A Different Perspective

Hiding may protect privacy but can also manipulate perception.

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