Entirely Quote by Jean de la Bruyere
“One seeks to make the loved one entirely happy, or, if that cannot be, entirely wretched.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Les Caractères, 1688
The desire to fully control another's happiness can lead to extreme outcomes, either total joy or total suffering.
In simple terms: Trying to control others' feelings can cause harm.
Key Takeaway
Seek balance, respect autonomy.
Themes
control
relationships
extremes
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- parenting
- romantic partnership
- friendship
- leadership
Key Concepts
autonomy
power dynamics
emotional responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you respect others' feelings while caring?
- What limits should you set on influencing others?
A Different Perspective
Assuming total control ignores personal agency.
![“The court is like a palace built of marble; I mean that it is made up of very hard but very polished people. [Fr., La cour est comme un edifice bati de marbre; je veux dire qu'elle est composee d'hommes fort durs mais fort polis.]” quote by Jean de la Bruyere](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/fcf/jean-de-la-bruyere-575_built_the-court-is-like-a-palace-built-of-marb_77288.jpg)
