Birth Quote by Thornton Wilder
“She had never realized any love save love as passion. Such love, though it expends itself in generosity and thoughtfulness, though it give birth to visions and to great poetry, remains among the sharpest expressions of self-interest. Not until it has passed though a long servitude, though its own self-hatred, though mockery, though great doubts, can it take its place among the loyalties. Many who have spent a lifetime in it can tell us less of love than the child that lost a dog yesterday.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Bridge of San Luis Rey, Thornton Wilder, 1927
Love as passion can be generous and creative but also rooted in self-interest, evolving through hardship into deeper loyalty.
In simple terms: Passionate love starts selfish, grows through struggle into loyalty.
Key Takeaway
Recognize love’s complexity and its growth through challenges.
Themes
love
self‑interest
growth
loyalty
artistic expression
Mood
reflective
poetic
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- Relationships
- Creative collaborations
- Personal crises
- Artistic endeavors
Key Concepts
Human psychology
Romantic idealism
Self‑sacrifice
Questions to Reflect On
- How does self‑interest shape love’s expression?
- Can love survive without personal sacrifice?
A Different Perspective
Passion may blind to practical realities.
