Love is not, anywhere, taken seriously. It's not respected. It's the one thing in the world everyone wants, but for some reason people are obliged to pretend that love is trifling and foolish.
The quote from Carol Shields' "The Republic of Love" suggests that love is often undervalued and dismissed by society. Despite being a universal desire, people tend to trivialize love and treat it as an inconsequential aspect of life. This contradiction highlights a societal tendency to overlook the profound importance of love in human experience.
The statement reflects a deeper commentary on human relationships and emotional expression. While love is sought after by many, the societal pressure to downplay its significance creates a cultural misunderstanding. Shields urges readers to recognize and embrace the depth and seriousness of love, contrasting the common belief that it is merely a lighthearted emotion.