Aphrodite Quote by Lawrence Durrell
““I realized then the truth about all love: that it is an absolute which takes all or forfeits all. The other feelings, compassion, tenderness and so on, exist only on the periphery and belong on the constructions of society and habit. But she herself- austere and merciless Aphrodite-is a pagan. it is not our brains or instincts which she picks-but our very bones.””
About This Quote
Source novel: The Alexandria Quartet, 1957
Love is portrayed as an all‑consuming force that demands total commitment, while other emotions are peripheral and socially constructed.
In simple terms: Love demands total surrender; other feelings are secondary.
Key Takeaway
Recognize love’s intensity and its impact on personal identity.
Themes
love
totality
human desire
spiritual conflict
Mood
passionate
introspective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- relationships
- personal growth
- spiritual quests
- artistic expression
Key Concepts
romantic idealism
existential sacrifice
Questions to Reflect On
- Is love worth the total sacrifice?
- How do societal norms shape our emotional experiences?
A Different Perspective
Love’s intensity can lead to loss of self and neglect of other values.
