Love Quote by W.H. Auden
““For the error bred in the bone of each woman and each man craves what it cannot have, not universal love but to be loved alone.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The Unknown Citizen” (1941) or similar lyrical source
Humans desire exclusive love, yet universal love is unattainable, leading to a craving for unique affection.
In simple terms: People crave being uniquely loved.
Key Takeaway
Seek authentic connections, not just universal acceptance.
Themes
desire
loneliness
love
Mood
introspective
philosophical
Type
lyyrical
emotional
When to use this quote
- romantic relationships
- friendships
- self‑esteem
Key Concepts
existential yearning
human connection
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you prioritize being loved alone over being loved by many?
- How does this desire shape your relationships?
A Different Perspective
Universal love may be idealistic and elusive.
![“Cassio is a ladies’ man, that is to say, a man who feels most at home in feminine company where his looks and good manners make him popular, but is ill at ease in the company of his own sex because he is unsure of his own masculinity. […] Cassio is a ladies’ man, not a seducer. With women of his…” quote by W.H. Auden](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/cb5/w-h-auden-2-7412_business_cassio-is-a-ladies-man-that-is-to-say-a_87978.jpg)
