D. H. Lawrence: 'I shall always be a priest of love.'

I shall always be a priest of love.

The quote "I shall always be a priest of love" by D. H. Lawrence encapsulates the author's belief in the enduring power and significance of love in his life. Lawrence sees himself as a custodian, a devotee, and a spiritual guide of love—a metaphorical priest who worships and serves this universal force.At its core, this quote signifies Lawrence's unwavering commitment to love as a central aspect of his existence. To him, love is not merely a romantic notion but a profound philosophical concept that permeates every aspect of life. By assuming the role of a priest, Lawrence emphasizes the reverence and devotion he has towards love.This quote showcases the importance of love in Lawrence's life and work. Throughout his extensive literary oeuvre, Lawrence explored the nuances and complexities of human relationships, championing the transformative power of passion. His novels, such as "Lady Chatterley's Lover" and "Sons and Lovers," delve deeply into the intricacies of love, desire, and intimacy, unearthing the emotional depths of human connections.Furthermore, Lawrence's depiction of himself as a priest of love highlights the divine and sacred nature he assigns to this emotional force. By using religious imagery, he elevates love to a spiritual level, suggesting that it holds the key to unlocking higher truths and understanding within ourselves and the world around us.However, to add an unexpected philosophical concept to the discussion, let us explore the juxtaposition between Lawrence's "priest of love" and the concept of existentialism. Existentialism, a philosophical movement popularized in the 20th century, posits that individuals define their own meaning and purpose in life through their actions and choices. It emphasizes personal responsibility, freedom, and the quest for authenticity.While Lawrence's quote may initially appear aligned with existentialist principles due to his assertion of personal agency in embracing love, there are notable divergences. Existentialism asserts that individuals ultimately create their own sense of meaning, whereas Lawrence sees himself as a servant of love, implying a more passive role.However, we can reconcile these concepts by considering that Lawrence's assertion of being a "priest of love" may be rooted in his recognition of love as an existential experience. By surrendering to love as a force beyond individual control, Lawrence is aligning himself with the profound existential encounters that shape and define us.In this interpretation, Lawrence's priestly dedication to love signifies his acceptance of its transformative potential and his submission to the mysterious and uncontrollable aspects of the human experience. By allowing love to guide and dictate his path, he embraces the existentialist notions of authenticity and personal growth in the face of the unknown.Ultimately, D. H. Lawrence's proclamation, "I shall always be a priest of love," embodies his belief in the enduring power of love and its significance in shaping human existence. As a metaphorical priest, Lawrence emphasizes his unwavering commitment to love and how it encompasses and fuels his worldview.Through his role as a priest, Lawrence aims to convey the sacredness and transcendence of love, elevating it beyond the realm of ordinary emotions. Furthermore, by introducing the unexpected philosophical concept of existentialism, we can appreciate the interplay between Lawrence's devotion to love and the individual's quest for meaning and authenticity.Embracing this perspective broadens our understanding of the quote and allows us to appreciate the complex philosophical and existential considerations that underpin Lawrence's work. In essence, we are invited to explore the depths of our own existential encounters with love and to contemplate the transformative power it holds within our lives.