People only see in us the contemptible skirt-fever which rules our actions but completely miss the beauty-hunger underlying it.
The quote highlights how people often judge others superficially, focusing only on outward behaviors like the obsession with appearances ("skirt-fever"). They miss the deeper emotional needs that drive these actions, such as a desire for beauty and connection. This misunderstanding results in overlooking the complex inner world of individuals.
Durrell's words suggest that beneath superficial actions lies a profound longing for aesthetic and emotional fulfillment. Recognizing this hidden longing can lead to a more empathetic understanding of human motivations, moving beyond surface judgments to appreciate the deeper aspirations influencing people's actions.
