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Oxford is Oxford: not a mere receptacle for youth, like Cambridge. Perhaps it wants its inmates to love it rather than to love one another.
E. M. Forster
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote emphasizes the unique character of Oxford as a place that fosters a deep love for its environment and culture rather than focusing solely on interpersonal relationships.

E. M. Forster's quote reflects on the distinct and profound nature of the Oxford experience, suggesting that the university is more than just a place for youthful camaraderie. Instead, it encourages an emotional attachment to its rich heritage and intellectual wealth, proposing that the love for the institution itself may take precedence over the love between individuals within it.

Themes

OxfordLoveEducationUniversityCulture

In practice

Example use cases

During a speech at the university alumni gathering.

More from E. M. Forster

Personal relations are the important thing for ever and ever, and not this outer life of telegrams and anger.
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A poem is true if it hangs together. Information points to something else. A poem points to nothing but itself.
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One must be fond of people and trust them if one is not to make a mess of life.
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The fact is we can only love what we know personally. And we cannot know much. In public affairs, in the rebuilding of civilization, something less dramatic and emotional is needed, namely tolerance.
E. M. ForsterRead
One person with passion is better than forty people merely interested.
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Don't be mysterious; there isn't the time.
E. M. ForsterRead

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