This quote offers a rather cynical yet thought-provoking perspective on human nature. It suggests that people tend to value what they cannot easily attain, highlighting a universal psychological phenomenon: the allure of the forbidden. When something is out of reach, it often seems more desirable, feeding into notions of longing and desire that can distort our perception of worth. Conversely, when individuals acquire something too easily or without significant effort, they might undervalue its worth, questioning its authenticity or significance. This dynamic is deeply rooted in human behavior and societal values, influencing everything from personal relationships to material pursuits. For example, a person might chase after a rare opportunity or a forbidden love, believing these experiences to be more satisfying precisely because they are rare or unattainable. Conversely, easy achievement may induce complacency or disdain. The phrase also introduces a layer of skepticism about human rationality, implying that much of what drives us is not logical but rooted in emotional and superficial fears — such as the fear of losing what we've obtained too readily or skepticism about the virtue of possessions acquired without struggle. It invites us to consider whether our values are genuinely our own or shaped by psychological biases. The quote can be seen as a critique of societal norms that often equate worth with scarcity and difficulty, urging us to reflect on what truly determines value and happiness. This viewpoint profoundly aligns with the themes in Suzanne Enoch's book, where human passions and follies are often explored beneath the surface of societal facades, revealing how irrational our desires can be despite societal structures aimed at rationing and control.