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If you will thank me '' he replied let it be for yourself alone. That the wish of giving happiness to you might add force to the other inducements which led me on I shall not attempt to deny. But your family owe me nothing. Much as I respect them I believe I thought only of you.
Jane Austen
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote emphasizes the importance of selflessness in love and the notion that true affection seeks happiness for the beloved rather than for recognition.

In this quote, Jane Austen reflects on the nature of love and personal sacrifice. The speaker acknowledges that their motivations for giving happiness stem from a desire for the other's well-being, but they clarify that any gratitude should be directed towards oneself, as it is the recipient's happiness that matters most. This highlights the idea that true affection is not self-serving, and love is best expressed as an act of giving without the expectation of return or debt.

Themes

LoveHappinessSelflessnessRelationshipsGratitude

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a wedding toast to highlight the importance of love and selflessness in a marriage.

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