But, especially in love, only counterfeit emotions exist nowadays. We have all been taught to mistrust everybody emotionally, from parents downwards, or upwards. Don't trust anybody with your real emotions: if you've got any: that is the slogan of today. Trust them with your money, even, but never with your feelings. They are bound to trample on them.
The excerpt from D.H. Lawrence's "Lady Chatterley's Lover" reflects a pervasive skepticism regarding genuine emotional connections in contemporary society. It suggests that people have been conditioned to doubt the authenticity of others’ emotions, instilling a fear of vulnerability. Instead of fostering trust and openness, individuals are taught to guard their true feelings, leading to a culture where superficial or "counterfeit" emotions thrive.
This statement addresses the ironic priority placed on material trust over emotional trust, highlighting a significant cultural shift. While society may encourage financial trust, emotional betrayal is commonly anticipated, resulting in a reluctance to share one's feelings. Ultimately, this caution leads to shallow relationships, where real emotional intimacy is sacrificed in favor of self-protection.