Meaning: This quote by George Meredith, the 19th-century English novelist, offers an insightful perspective on the concept of possession and its relationship to happiness. The quote suggests that possessing something without feeling obligated to it can lead to a state of happiness or felicity. To fully understand the meaning behind this quote, it is essential to explore the ideas of possession, obligation, and their connection to human contentment.

In the context of this quote, possession refers to the act of owning or having control over something, whether it be material possessions, relationships, or even intangible concepts such as knowledge or power. The notion of possession often evokes the idea of attachment or responsibility, as owning something typically entails a certain level of commitment or obligation to maintain, protect, or utilize the object in question.

However, Meredith's quote suggests that there is a certain freedom or joy that comes from possessing something without the burden of obligation. This interpretation invites contemplation on the nature of attachment and the impact of expectations and responsibilities on our sense of happiness and fulfillment.

The concept of obligation is central to understanding the quote's message. Obligation implies a sense of duty or responsibility towards the object being possessed. This could manifest as the need to maintain and care for a possession, or the pressure to uphold certain expectations associated with it. In the context of relationships, obligation might refer to the expectations and commitments that come with being involved with another person.

Meredith's quote seems to imply that when the burden of obligation is removed from the act of possession, a sense of felicity, or happiness and contentment, can be attained. This perspective challenges the conventional notion that ownership and attachment are inherently linked to responsibility and duty, suggesting that there is a certain freedom and joy in detachment.

One possible interpretation of Meredith's quote is that it highlights the potential for pure enjoyment and contentment when ownership is not accompanied by the weight of obligation. This could be applied to various aspects of life, from material possessions to personal relationships and even to abstract concepts such as ideas and beliefs.

In the context of material possessions, the quote might suggest that the joy of owning something is heightened when one does not feel burdened by the need to constantly maintain or protect it. This could be seen as a call for individuals to reevaluate their relationship with material goods and consider the possibility of finding happiness in simplicity and detachment.

In the realm of personal relationships, Meredith's quote could be interpreted as a reminder of the value of freedom and autonomy within connections with others. By freeing oneself from the sense of obligation that often accompanies relationships, individuals may find a deeper sense of fulfillment and happiness in their interactions with others.

Moreover, the quote might also speak to the idea of intellectual or emotional possession, suggesting that the pursuit of knowledge or understanding can be more rewarding when approached with a sense of openness and curiosity, rather than the weight of obligation or expectation.

In conclusion, George Meredith's quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the relationship between possession, obligation, and happiness. By suggesting that possession without obligation approaches felicity, the quote encourages contemplation on the nature of attachment, responsibility, and the potential for joy and contentment in detachment. Whether applied to material possessions, personal relationships, or intellectual pursuits, the quote invites individuals to reconsider the role of obligation in their lives and to explore the possibility of finding happiness in the freedom of ownership without burden.