This excerpt from George Eliot's "Middlemarch" reflects on the transformative nature of love and companionship. It suggests that while some aspects of life remain constant, the experience of love brings a new light to relationships. Once the fleeting moments of courtship give way to the reality of marriage, individuals often reveal deeper qualities that may not have been apparent during their initial courtship. This shift emphasizes that our perceptions of others can significantly change with time and shared experiences.

The quote also highlights the inevitable evolution of relationships. It recognizes that the person we think we know during the early stages can present new facets of themselves as life unfolds together in marriage. This notion invites readers to understand that growth and change are intrinsic to human connections, and what one finds in a partner may either expand or challenge their preconceived notions. Thus, the essence of a relationship is not static, but rather a dynamic interplay shaped by time and intimacy.