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And love Quote by Alfred Lord Tennyson

“You, methinks you think you love me well; For me, I love you somewhat; rest: and Love Should have some rest and pleasure in himself, Not ever be too curious for a boon, Too prurient for a proof against the grain Of him ye say ye love: but Fame with men, Being but ampler means to serve mankind…” quote by Alfred Lord Tennyson
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“You, methinks you think you love me well; For me, I love you somewhat; rest: and Love Should have some rest and pleasure in himself, Not ever be too curious for a boon, Too prurient for a proof against the grain Of him ye say ye love: but Fame with men, Being but ampler means to serve mankind, Should have small rest or pleasure in herself, But work as vassal to the larger love, That dwarfs the petty love of one to one.”

Alfred Lord Tennyson

About This Quote

Source Poem: The Lady of Shalott, Alfred Lord Tennyson, 1833

Love should be balanced with rest and pleasure, not consumed by obsessive curiosity or self‑interest.

In simple terms: Love needs rest and joy, not endless curiosity.

Key Takeaway

Seek harmony between affection and personal peace.

Themes

love balance rest curiosity self‑interest

Mood

reflective thoughtful poetic

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • marriage
  • friendship
  • self‑care
  • creative work
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

Tennysonian poetry romantic idealism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does rest enhance love?
  • What does curiosity cost in relationships?
A Different Perspective

Excessive curiosity can erode genuine intimacy.

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