Perhaps one day in the far-off future, when I'm about eighty-nine, I might look back and say, "When I was a young-ish woman I fell in love with an intense charismatic man. He was way out of my league and when it ended it nearly killed me, but every woman should experience that sort of love once in their lives. Only once, mind, you mightn't survive a second bout. A bit like dengue fever, that way." I
The quote reflects on the profound impact of a significant relationship, highlighting the intoxicating feelings of love and charisma that come with it. The speaker anticipates looking back on this intense experience with a mix of nostalgia and caution. She acknowledges that while such a love can be exhilarating, it can also be devastating if it ends, comparing it to a remorseless illness that one might not survive a second time.
This contemplation touches on the universal truth of love's intensity and its ability to shape our lives. It suggests that while these moments are valuable and essential for personal growth, they can also be deeply painful. The sentiment expresses both a longing for that unique connection and an awareness of its potential consequences, making it a poignant reflection on love and its complexities.