Dreams Quote by Fyodor Dostoyevsky
““...For active love is a harsh and fearful thing compared with love in dreams. Love in dreams thirsts for immediate action, quickly performed, and with everyone watching. Indeed, it will go as far as the giving even of one's life, provided it does not take long but is soon over, as on stage, and everyone is looking on and praising. Whereas active love is labor and perseverance, and for some people, perhaps, a whole science.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Crime and Punishment, 1866
Active love requires effort, endurance, and sacrifice, unlike fleeting, idealized love that seeks quick gratification and public approval.
In simple terms: Real love is hard work, not just fantasy.
Key Takeaway
Embrace perseverance in relationships.
Themes
love
effort
perseverance
reality
sacrifice
Mood
reflective
serious
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- marriage
- friendship
- parenting
- long‑term projects
Key Concepts
existentialism
psychology
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance effort and joy in love?
- What sacrifices are worth making?
A Different Perspective
Active love may lead to burnout if expectations are unrealistic.
![“if [God] doesn't exist, man is the chief of the earth, of the universe. Magnificent! Only how is he going to be good without God?” quote by Fyodor Dostoyevsky](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/09b/fyodor-dostoyevsky-94_ethics_if-god-doesn-t-exist-man-is-the-chief-of_16023.jpg)
