Love (understood as the desire of good for another) is in fact so unnatural a phenomenon that it can scarcely repeat itself, the soul being unable to become virgin again and not having energy enough to cast itself out again into the ocean of another's soul.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Joyce suggests true love is unnatural and rare because the soul cannot fully reinvent itself for a new person.
- In plain terms
- Love is hard to repeat because the soul cannot be fresh again for someone new.
- What can you take from it?
- Recognize that deep love may not be repeatable due to inner limitations.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can you truly love again?
- Is love natural or unnatural?
Another view
Calling love unnatural may overlook the human capacity for growth and renewal.
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