---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Self love is like that instrument by…"
description: "\"“Self love is like that instrument by which we propagate the species: it is necessary, it is dear to us, it gives us pleasure, and it must be hidden.”\"..."
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/a87/voltaire-173_love_self-love-is-like-that-instrument-by-whi_2140230.png"
---

#  Self love is like that instrument by which we propagate…

![“Self love is like that instrument by which we propagate the species: it is necessary, it is dear to us, it gives us pleasure, and it must be hidden.” quote by Voltaire](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/a87/voltaire-173_love_self-love-is-like-that-instrument-by-whi_2140230.png)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/a87/voltaire-173_love_self-love-is-like-that-instrument-by-whi_2140230.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/a87/voltaire-173_love_self-love-is-like-that-instrument-by-whi_2140230.png)

> ““Self love is like that instrument by which we propagate the species: it is necessary, it is dear to us, it gives us pleasure, and it must be hidden.””

[Voltaire](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/voltaire/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Self‑love is essential for personal fulfillment, but people often conceal it because it feels selfish or vulnerable.

**In simple terms:** Self‑love is needed but hidden.

Key Takeaway

Embrace self‑care openly.

Themes

self‑acceptance vulnerability social norms

Mood

reflective hopeful introspective

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

- personal growth
- relationships
- mental health
- creative work

Key Concepts

ego authenticity psychology

Questions to Reflect On

- How can you show self‑love without alienating others?
- What fears keep you from acknowledging your worth?

A Different Perspective

Self‑love can be misinterpreted as narcissism, leading to social pushback.

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