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Affection Quote by Robert Louis Stevenson

“His friends were those of his own blood or those whom he had known the longest; his affections, like ivy, were the growth of time, they implied no aptness in the object.” quote by Robert Louis Stevenson
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“His friends were those of his own blood or those whom he had known the longest; his affections, like ivy, were the growth of time, they implied no aptness in the object.”

Robert Louis Stevenson

About This Quote

The speaker describes friendships based on blood ties or long acquaintance, likening affection to ivy that grows over time without necessarily fitting the object.

In simple terms: Friendships grow slowly, not always perfectly suited.

Key Takeaway

Value enduring relationships.

Themes

friendship time affection

Mood

nostalgic thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • family ties
  • long‑term friendships
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

longevity personal bonds

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes a long‑standing friendship meaningful?
  • How does time influence the depth of affection?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may imply that time alone justifies all relationships, ignoring quality.

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