Edgar Rice Burroghs: 'Anger and hate against one we love steels our hearts, but contempt or pity leaves us silent and ashamed.'

Anger and hate against one we love steels our hearts, but contempt or pity leaves us silent and ashamed.

In his thought-provoking quote, Edgar Rice Burroughs delves into the complex emotions that can arise in relationships. He examines how anger and hate, when directed towards someone we love, can fortify our hearts and ignite a passionate response. Conversely, Burroughs highlights the contrasting impact of contempt or pity, which often leave us silent and ashamed, as if these emotions strip us of our ability to defend or rationalize our actions. This profound observation captures the intricate dynamics between love, anger, hate, and the vulnerable emotions that emerge when we view someone we care for through the lenses of contempt or pity.At first glance, this quote suggests that anger and hate can have a paradoxical effect on our emotional state when directed towards a loved one. Instead of weakening or fracturing our feelings, these negative emotions can actually galvanize our hearts, perhaps as a defense mechanism to protect ourselves from the pain inflicted by the actions or behaviors of the person we hold dear. Anger and hate can fuel a fierce determination, propelling us to confront the source of our distress, to stand up for ourselves, and to establish boundaries. In a way, they serve as an armor that shields our vulnerable love from further harm.On the other hand, Burroughs uncovers a more unsettling aspect of our emotional responses when assessing someone we love through the lenses of contempt or pity. Instead of igniting a fiery response, these emotions leave us silenced and ashamed. Contempt, which often arises from a sense of superiority or dismissal, casts a shadow on the cherished connection we once held, as though the person we love no longer elicits admiration or respect from us. Pity, in its well-intentioned yet often condescending nature, brings about a feeling of embarrassment or discomfort. Both emotions expose a vulnerability within ourselves, highlighting our own weaknesses or shortcomings in relation to the other person.While Burroughs explores these contrasting emotional reactions in the context of a personal relationship, his quote can spark broader philosophical contemplation. It raises the question of how our emotional responses shape our perceptions of others and influence our behavior towards them. The underlying theme of duality emerges in his words, illuminating the multifaceted nature of human emotions and their capacity to both empower and disarm us.In reflecting upon this quote, we can delve deeper into the concept of emotional intelligence and self-awareness. By acknowledging the intricate tapestry of emotions that love can evoke, we gain a more profound understanding of the complexities involved in human relationships. It reminds us to approach our emotional responses with curiosity and introspection, recognizing that anger, hate, contempt, and pity are all facets of our emotional repertoire. Understanding and navigating these emotions consciously can lead to more authentic and compassionate connections.Ultimately, Burroughs' quote serves as a reminder that our emotions hold immense power over our thoughts and actions. It encourages us to explore the intricate interplay between anger, hate, contempt, pity, and love. By recognizing and embracing the paradoxical nature of our emotional responses, we can foster a deeper understanding of ourselves and others, cultivating empathy and forging stronger bonds in our relationships.