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Virtues, like essences, lose their fragrance when exposed…

“Virtues, like essences, lose their fragrance when exposed. They are sensitive plants, which will not bear too familiar approaches.” quote by William Shenstone
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“Virtues, like essences, lose their fragrance when exposed. They are sensitive plants, which will not bear too familiar approaches.”

William Shenstone

About This Quote

Source Poem: The Lover's Complaint, 1762

Essences lose their power when overused; delicate virtues fade with familiarity.

In simple terms: Overexposure dulls delicate qualities.

Key Takeaway

Treat precious things with reverence.

Themes

respect fragility beauty

Mood

reflective melancholic

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • art
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

philosophy sensibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you protect what you cherish?
  • When does intimacy become overfamiliar?
A Different Perspective

Too much closeness can cause loss of value.

4.8 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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