Identity Quote by Anaïs Nin
““By the end of the evening I was like a man, terribly in love with her face and body, which promised so much, and I hated the self created in her by others. Others feel because of her; and because of her, others write poetry; because of her, others hate; others, like Henry, love her in spite of themselves.””
About This Quote
Source Diary Entry, 1930s
Intense attraction leads to idealizing a lover, creating a self‑image shaped by others’ perceptions and conflicting emotions.
In simple terms: Love can create a conflicted self‑image influenced by others.
Seek authentic connection beyond external narratives.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- romantic relationships
- creative writing
- therapy sessions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate your feelings from others’ projections?
- What steps help you see a partner authentically?
Idealization can obscure true compatibility and cause inner turmoil.