Quote by W. H. Auden

Narcissus does not fall in love with his reflection because it is beautiful, but because it is his. If it were his beauty that enthralled him, he would be set free in a few years by its fading.


Narcissus does not fall in love with his reflection because

Summary

This quote highlights the idea that Narcissus' attraction to his reflection stems from his sense of ownership over it, rather than solely admiring its beauty. The quote suggests that if Narcissus' fascination was solely based on the beauty he sees, it would eventually diminish once his own attractiveness fades with time. It implies that Narcissus' fixation with his reflection is rooted in self-obsession and the desire for his own image rather than an appreciation for beauty itself.

Topics

Vanity
By W. H. Auden
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