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Art Quote by Edith Wharton

“Passion," the artist implied, would have been the dominant note of his life, had it not been held in check by a sentiment of exalted chivalry, and by the sense that a nature of such emotional intensity as his must always be "ridden on the curb.” quote by Edith Wharton
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““Passion," the artist implied, would have been the dominant note of his life, had it not been held in check by a sentiment of exalted chivalry, and by the sense that a nature of such emotional intensity as his must always be "ridden on the curb.””

Edith Wharton

About This Quote

Source Novel: The House of Mirth, 1905

Passion can dominate life, but societal expectations and chivalry often restrain it, forcing individuals to suppress intense emotions.

In simple terms: Society often forces people to curb passion.

Key Takeaway

Balance passion with social expectations.

Themes

art emotion society chivalry

Mood

reflective melancholic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • creative pursuits
  • career decisions

Key Concepts

self‑restraint cultural norms

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is restraint appropriate?
  • How can one express passion responsibly?
A Different Perspective

Suppressing passion may lead to inner conflict.

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