My idea is this, that when you only love a little you're naturally not jealous-or are only jealous also a little, so that it doesn't matter. But when you love in a deeper and intenser way, then you're in the very same proportion jealous; your jealousy has intensity and, no doubt, ferocity. When however you love in the most abysmal and unutterable way of all – whey then you're beyond everything, and nothing can pull you down.
In Henry James' "The Golden Bowl," the author explores the complex relationship between love and jealousy. He posits that when one's love is superficial, jealousy remains minor and manageable. This light form of love doesn’t provoke significant emotional turmoil, as the stakes in the relationship are relatively low. Conversely, as love deepens and becomes more intense, jealousy also escalates, bringing with it heightened feelings and potential turmoil. The intensity of such jealousy can be overwhelming, reflecting the deeper emotional investment in the relationship.
James further suggests that the most profound and unconditional form of love transcends jealousy entirely. When love reaches this ultimate level, it liberates individuals from the constraints of jealousy and insecurity. In this state, a person is invulnerable to the negative emotions that often accompany intense relationships. Thus, the most profound love is not only powerful but also provides a sense of resilience against emotional turmoil, leading to a state of being that is beyond typical human experiences of love and jealousy.
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All the things you can talk about in anyone's work are the things that are least important.
Race of Cain, ascend to heaven, And cast God down upon the earth!
