Humanity is not perfect in any fashion; no more in the case of evil than in that of good. The criminal has his virtues, just as the honest man has his weaknesses.
Pierre Choderlos De LaclosRead
It has become necessary for me to have this woman, so as to save myself from the ridicule of being in love with her: for to what lengths will a man not be driven by thwarted desire?
Interpretation
What this quote means
The speaker feels compelled to pursue a romantic relationship to avoid embarrassment and reflects on the extremes one may go to for unfulfilled desire.
This quote from Pierre Choderlos De Laclos captures the complex interplay between desire and social perception. It highlights how intense emotions, particularly love, can drive individuals to take drastic measures to avoid ridicule or societal judgment, suggesting that the fear of being hurt or mocked can sometimes overshadow genuine feelings and lead to actions that may seem irrational.
Themes
LoveDesireRidiculeEmotionsRelationships
In practice
Example use cases
A speaker at a romantic gathering might use this quote to illustrate the lengths people go to in love.
More from Pierre Choderlos De Laclos
All quotes →Cast between the extremes of happiness and misfortune, uncertainty is a cruel torment.
Pierre Choderlos De LaclosRead
I am astonished at the pleasure one experiences in doing good; and I should be tempted to believe that what we call virtuous people have not so much merit as they lead us to suppose.
Pierre Choderlos De LaclosRead
It was there, in particular, that I confirmed the truth that love, which we cry up as the source of our pleasures, is nothing more than an excuse for them.
Pierre Choderlos De LaclosRead
...it is not for the illusion of a moment to govern the choice of a lifetime.
Pierre Choderlos De LaclosRead
How characteristic of your perverse heart that longs only for what happens to be out of reach.
Pierre Choderlos De LaclosRead
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