Quote by George Eliot
Vanity is as ill at ease under indifference as tenderness is under a love which it cannot return.
Summary
This quote suggests that vanity and tenderness have contrasting reactions to certain situations. It implies that vanity, the excessive pride in one's appearance or achievements, cannot handle being met with indifference. On the other hand, tenderness, which refers to sensitivity and affection, struggles when faced with love that it cannot reciprocate. Both vanity and tenderness crave a certain response, which, if lacking, causes discomfort. This quote emphasizes the pairing of these emotions and highlights their unease when provoked by specific circumstances.
By George Eliot