With the modern diseases (once TB, now cancer) the romantic idea that the disease expresses the character is invariably extended to assert that the character causes the disease -- because it has not expressed itself. Passion moves inward, striking and blighting the deepest cellular recesses.

Summary

This quote suggests that in the past, diseases like TB were viewed as reflecting a person's character. However, in modern times, this idea has transformed to believe that one's character actually causes diseases like cancer. The quote implies that repressed passion and emotions manifest internally and harm the very core of our cells. Thus, it highlights the belief that emotional factors contribute to the development and progression of certain illnesses.

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