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Assorted Quote by Annie Proulx

“Was love then like a bag of assorted sweets passed around from which one might choose more than once? Some might sting the tongue, some invoke night perfume. Some had centers as bitter as gall, some blended honey and poison, some were quickly swallowed. And among the common bull's-eyes and…” quote by Annie Proulx
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“Was love then like a bag of assorted sweets passed around from which one might choose more than once? Some might sting the tongue, some invoke night perfume. Some had centers as bitter as gall, some blended honey and poison, some were quickly swallowed. And among the common bull's-eyes and peppermints a few rare ones; one or two with deadly needles at the heart, another that brought clam and gentle pleasure. Were his fingers closing on that one?”

Annie Proulx

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Shipping News, 1993

Love is varied and unpredictable, offering both pleasure and pain, and sometimes dangerous allure.

In simple terms: Love is sweet, bitter, and sometimes dangerous.

Key Takeaway

Choose love wisely.

Themes

love choice risk

Mood

nostalgic thoughtful

Type

literary poetic

When to use this quote

  • dating
  • long‑term relationships
  • self‑reflection

Key Concepts

complexity desire danger pleasure

Questions to Reflect On

  • Which love experience feels like a sweet treat?
  • How do you handle love’s bitter moments?
A Different Perspective

Not all love experiences fit this metaphor.

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