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I know not love' quoth he, 'nor will not know it, Unless…

“I know not love' quoth he, 'nor will not know it, Unless it be a boar, and then I chase it. 'Tis much to borrow, and I will not owe it. My love to love is love but to disgrace it; For I have heard it is a life in death, That laughs and weeps, and all but with a breath.” quote by William Shakespeare
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““I know not love' quoth he, 'nor will not know it, Unless it be a boar, and then I chase it. 'Tis much to borrow, and I will not owe it. My love to love is love but to disgrace it; For I have heard it is a life in death, That laughs and weeps, and all but with a breath.””

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

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

Love is portrayed as a complex, contradictory force that can be both noble and destructive.

In simple terms: Love is both noble and harmful.

Key Takeaway

Beware love's contradictions.

Themes

love contradiction human nature

Mood

melancholy thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • romantic relationships
  • personal growth
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

philosophy of love emotional conflict

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes love both uplifting and painful?
  • How do we reconcile love's duality?
A Different Perspective

May romanticize suffering.

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