Quote by Olive Schreiner
Perhaps the old monks were right when they tried to root love out; perhaps the poets are right when they try to water it. It is a blood-red flower, with the color of sin; but there is always the scent of a god about it.
Summary
This quote suggests that love is a complex and powerful force, capable of both the beauty of divinity and the darkness of sin. The reference to "old monks" trying to rid themselves of love implies their belief that love leads to temptation and moral downfall. On the other hand, the mention of poets attempting to nurture love highlights its inherent divine essence. Ultimately, love is depicted as a contradictory yet captivating entity, symbolized by a blood-red flower with the contrasting attributes of guilt and godliness.