Follies Quote by Alfred Lord Tennyson
“The folly of all follies is to be love sick for a shadow.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The Lady of Shalott” (published 1833)
Obsessing over an unattainable ideal leads to emotional turmoil.
In simple terms: Love for an illusion causes pain.
Key Takeaway
Seek realistic, healthy relationships.
Themes
love
illusion
pain
self‑knowledge
Mood
melancholic
thoughtful
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- unrequited love
- idealizing partners
- personal growth
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What shadows are you chasing?
- How can you ground your affection?
A Different Perspective
Idealization can blind you to real opportunities.
