“Love sought is good, but given unsought, is better.”
- April 26, 1564 – April 23, 1616
- Born in England
- Playwright, poet, actor
- Wrote many masterpieces such as “Hamlet,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “Macbeth,” and had a great influence on English literature
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Quote
“Love sought is good, but given unsought, is better.”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night speaks to the idea that love freely given—without expectation or pursuit—holds a greater value than love that is actively sought or pursued. “Love sought is good” acknowledges that seeking love can be fulfilling, and the effort to find love often leads to meaningful connections. However, the second part, “but given unsought, is better,” suggests that love that comes unexpectedly, without being actively sought, has a purity and authenticity that makes it even more valuable. It’s the kind of love that emerges naturally, often in ways that surprise and enrich both the giver and the receiver.
In modern contexts, this quote reflects the idea that authentic relationships and genuine affection often arise spontaneously, without the pressure of expectations or the desire to “win” someone’s love. It suggests that when love is given freely and without conditions, it carries a greater sense of grace and selflessness. For example, in friendships or romantic relationships, love that develops naturally and without ulterior motives can feel more genuine and lasting than love that is sought after with specific goals in mind, like gaining approval or affection.
Ultimately, the quote encourages the belief that love is most beautiful when it is not forced or pursued but arises in its own time, unbidden and pure. It suggests that selfless, unanticipated love has a deeper emotional impact, as it is given freely without calculation, creating a stronger and more meaningful bond.
