We must never expect discretion in first love: it is accompanied by such excessive joy that unless the joy is allowed to overflow, it will choke you.
Alexandre DumasRead
Truly generous men are always ready to become sympathetic when their enemy’s misfortune surpasses the limits of their hatred.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True generosity is displayed even towards one's enemies in times of their hardship.
This quote by Alexandre Dumas highlights the concept of true generosity as an expression of empathy that transcends personal grudges and animosities. It suggests that real magnanimity is revealed when individuals are able to set aside their hatred and show compassion towards those who may be in distress, regardless of their relationship or past conflicts.
Themes
GenerositySympathyEmpathyHatredCompassion
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a speech about the importance of forgiveness and compassion in conflict resolution.
More from Alexandre Dumas
All quotes →There are two ways of seeing: with the body and with the soul. The body's sight can sometimes forget, but the soul remembers forever.
Alexandre DumasRead
I do not often laugh, sir, as you may perceive by the air of my countenance; but nevertheless, I retain the privilege of laughing when I please.
Alexandre DumasRead
There is neither happiness nor misery in the world; there is only the comparison of one state with another, nothing more. He who has felt the deepest grief is best able to experience supreme happiness.
Alexandre DumasRead
Those born to wealth, and who have the means of gratifying every wish, know not what is the real happiness of life, just as those who have been tossed on the stormy waters of the ocean on a few frail planks can alone realize the blessings of fair weather.
Alexandre DumasRead
It is the way of weakened minds to see everything through a black cloud. The soul forms its own horizons; your soul is darkened, and consequently the sky of the future appears stormy and unpromising
Alexandre DumasRead
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