In "The Lifted Veil," George Eliot explores the intense emotions and imaginations that arise in the context of love and attraction before marriage. The narrator expresses how his partner captivated his mind, becoming an enigma that both fascinated and intimidated him. This allure stemmed from the mystery surrounding her, which he found both thrilling and daunting.

The quote reflects the powerful grip that the unknown has on one's imagination. Before they became partners, the narrator's thoughts were consumed by his idealized vision of her, illustrating how the absence of knowledge can amplify feelings of desire and fear. The secretive nature of their relationship added to his intrigue, highlighting the depth of emotional complexity that exists in romantic engagements.