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Gaze Quote by James Joyce

“With a sudden movement she bowed his head and joined her lips to his and he read the meaning of her movements in her frank uplifted eyes. It was too much for him. He closed his eyes, surrendering himself to her, body and mind, conscious of nothing in the world but the dark pressure of her softly…” quote by James Joyce
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““With a sudden movement she bowed his head and joined her lips to his and he read the meaning of her movements in her frank uplifted eyes. It was too much for him. He closed his eyes, surrendering himself to her, body and mind, conscious of nothing in the world but the dark pressure of her softly parting lips. They pressed upon his brain as upon his lips as though they were the vehicle of a vague speech; and between them he felt an unknown and timid pressure, darker than the swoon of sin, softer than sound or odour.””

James Joyce

About This Quote

Source Novel: Ulysses, 1922

Intense intimacy creates a powerful, almost overwhelming emotional and sensory experience that can dominate thought.

In simple terms: Deep intimacy overwhelms the mind.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and respect intense connections.

Themes

intimacy sensory emotion

Mood

intense reflective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • mindful communication
  • boundary setting
  • emotional awareness
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

psychology relationship dynamics literary description

Questions to Reflect On

  • How to maintain personal autonomy?
  • When does intimacy become overpowering?
A Different Perspective

Such intensity may not be healthy for all.

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