Conceal a flaw, and the world will imagine the worst.
MartialRead
Rarity gives a charm; so early fruits and winter roses are the most prized; and coyness sets off an extravagant mistress, while the door always open tempts no suitor.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The value of rarity enhances charm, making certain traits or moments more desirable.
This quote by Martial suggests that things that are rare or hard to obtain tend to hold greater value and allure. Just as early fruits and winter roses are special due to their scarcity, so too are qualities like coyness in a partner, which accentuate their allure. The quote implies that too much availability can lessen desire, highlighting the psychology of attraction and the value of exclusivity.
Themes
RarityCharmDesireAttractionExclusivity
In practice
Example use cases
In a romantic setting, this quote could inspire reflections on the allure of mystery and restraint in relationships.
More from Martial
All quotes βLife is not merely to be alive, but to be well.
MartialRead
To the ashes of the dead glory comes too late.
MartialRead
Life's not just about being alive, but being well.
MartialRead
My poems are naughty, but my life is pure.
MartialRead
Neither fear your death's day nor long for it.
MartialRead
Similar quotes
For an hour, blended with all she could offer, something noble had been created which had nothing to do with the physical world. And from the turn of his throat, the warmth of his hair, the strong, slender sinews of his hands, something further; which had. Though she combed the earth and searched through the smoke of the galaxies there was no being she wanted but this, who was not and should not be for Philippa Somerville.
Dorothy DunnettRead
I once asked a bird, how is it that you fly in this gravity of darkness? She responded, 'love lifts me.'
HafezRead
Unselfish love does not exploit its object and it does not ask for anything in return.
Aiden Wilson TozerRead
Love has the patience to endure the fault it sees but cannot cure.
Edgar GuestRead
To say 'I love you' one must first be able to say the 'I.'
Ayn RandRead
It seemed to me pretty plain, that they had more of love than matrimony in them.
Oliver GoldsmithRead