There is no more unfortunate creature under the sun than a fetishist who yearns for a woman's shoe and has to settle for the whole woman.
This quote highlights the nature of obsession and unfulfilled desires. It suggests that when one's fixation is narrowly focused—like a fetish for a specific object—there is a certain tragic limitation, especially if that obsession prevents genuine connection with a person as a whole. Such fixation can lead to dissatisfaction and superficiality, reducing complex human beings to a single symbol. The metaphor underscores how narrow desires may ultimately result in a greater sense of loss and unfulfillment, emphasizing the importance of appreciating the full complexity of individuals rather than fixating on specific aspects.