Active Quote by Roland Barthes
“To hide a passion totally (or even to hide, more simply, its excess) is inconceivable: not because the human subject is too weak, but because passion is in essence made to be seen: the hiding must be seen: I want you to know that I am hiding something from you, that is the active paradox I must resolve: at one and the same time it must be known and not known: I want you to know that I don't want to show my feelings: that is the message I address to the other.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Mythologies, Roland Barthes, 1957
Passion cannot be fully concealed because its very nature demands visibility, creating a paradox where the act of hiding signals its existence.
In simple terms: Passion must be seen, hiding reveals it.
Key Takeaway
Accept that hiding reveals truth.
Themes
identity
visibility
paradox
communication
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- artistic expression
- political discourse
- media analysis
Key Concepts
psychology
social signaling
authenticity
Questions to Reflect On
- How does concealment affect trust?
- When is secrecy justified?
A Different Perspective
Hiding may protect privacy but can also manipulate perception.
