Building Quote by Ben Jonson
“If I freely may discover What should please me in my lover, I would have her fair and witty, Savouring more of court than city; A little proud, but full of pity; Light and humorous in her toying, Oft building hopes, and soon destroying, Long, but sweet in the enjoying; Neither too easy nor to hard; All extremes I would have barr'd.”
About This Quote
Source Play: The Alchemist, 1610
The speaker desires a lover who balances wit, charm, and modesty, avoiding extremes of temperament.
In simple terms: Wants a balanced, witty, kind lover.
Seek partners with both humor and empathy.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- dating
- marriage
- courtship
- friendship
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What qualities truly sustain a lasting partnership?
- How do you balance expectations with reality?
Ideal traits may be unrealistic or overly specific.