To abandon oneself to principles is really to die -- and to die for an impossible love which is the contrary of love.

Summary

This quote suggests that blindly adhering to rigid principles or beliefs can lead to a figurative death of the self. It argues that this self-abandonment is akin to sacrificing oneself for an unattainable love, which goes against the true essence of love. In essence, the quote underscores the idea that rigidly adhering to principles without flexibility or openness can ultimately stifle individuality and prevent genuine, reciprocal love from flourishing.