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Desire Quote by Alice Hoffman

“Nothing could do that to them, that's what they used to whisper as they sat on the back stairs, in the dark and the dust, as if desire were a matter of personal choice.” quote by Alice Hoffman
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““Nothing could do that to them, that's what they used to whisper as they sat on the back stairs, in the dark and the dust, as if desire were a matter of personal choice.””

Alice Hoffman

About This Quote

People claim desire is a personal choice, yet the quote suggests it is an involuntary, almost predestined force that can’t be resisted.

In simple terms: Desire feels inevitable, not optional.

Key Takeaway

Desire may be beyond conscious control.

Themes

desire choice fate human nature

Mood

reflective somber

Type

philosophical narrative

When to use this quote

  • discussing addiction
  • exploring romantic attraction
  • examining compulsive behavior

Key Concepts

psychology of longing determinism

Practical Applications

  • recognize when desire feels compelled rather than chosen

Questions to Reflect On

  • When do we truly choose our desires?
  • Can desire be fully autonomous?
A Different Perspective

Not all desires are involuntary; many are shaped by rational decisions.

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