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Desire Quote by Sarah Fielding

“What I mean by love ... is this. A sympathetic liking--excited by fancy, directed by judgment--and to which is joined also a most sincere desire of the good and happiness of its object.” quote by Sarah Fielding
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“What I mean by love ... is this. A sympathetic liking--excited by fancy, directed by judgment--and to which is joined also a most sincere desire of the good and happiness of its object.”

Sarah Fielding

About This Quote

Source Essay: Letters on the English, 1748

Love is portrayed as a blend of affectionate admiration and a sincere wish for the beloved's well‑being, guided by reason.

In simple terms: Love mixes admiration with genuine goodwill.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate love with reasoned goodwill.

Themes

love reason well‑being

Mood

thoughtful hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • friendships
  • romantic relationships
  • ethical decision‑making

Key Concepts

philosophy of affection ethical desire

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does reason shape your affection?
  • Can love be both passionate and rational?
A Different Perspective

May idealize love beyond realistic limits.

2.2 out of 5 (3 ratings)

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