Love Quote by Irene Nemirovsky
““Adieu," he said, "this is goodbye. I'll never forget you, never." She stood silent. He looked at her and saw her eyes full of tears. He turned away. At this moment she wasn't ashamed of loving him, because her physical desire had gone and all she felt towards him now was pity and a profound, almost maternal tenderness. She forced herself to smile. "Like the Chinese mother who sent her son off to war telling him to be careful 'because war has its dangers,' I'm asking you, if you have any feelings for me, to be as careful as possible with your life." Because it is precious to you?" he asked nervously. Yes. Because it is precious to me.””
About This Quote
Source Short story: “The Mother’s Warning,” 1935
A lover’s parting is marked by deep, almost parental concern, urging caution with life’s preciousness.
In simple terms: Parting with protective love.
Key Takeaway
Cherish life and act carefully.
Themes
love
parting
protection
empathy
life
preciousness
Mood
reflective
poetic
Type
narrative
emotional
When to use this quote
- Romantic breakups
- advice to a lover
- emotional closure
- life appreciation
Key Concepts
Parental instinct
emotional sacrifice
existential value
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “precious” mean to you?
- How does protective love differ from romantic love?
A Different Perspective
The dialogue may seem melodramatic to some readers.
