Meaning:
The quote "The heart that has truly loved never forgets, But as truly loves on to the close" is a poignant expression of the enduring nature of love. It is attributed to Thomas More, an English lawyer, social philosopher, author, statesman, and noted Renaissance humanist. More is best known for his work "Utopia," which explores the concept of an ideal society. However, beyond his political and philosophical writings, More also expressed deep insights into the human experience, including the nature of love and its lasting impact.
This particular quote captures the essence of enduring love, emphasizing the idea that genuine love is unforgettable and continues to thrive despite the passage of time. More's words convey the notion that love, once truly experienced, becomes an integral part of the heart and endures throughout a lifetime. This sentiment resonates with many individuals who have experienced deep and abiding love in their lives, whether in romantic relationships, friendships, or familial connections.
The first part of the quote, "The heart that has truly loved never forgets," speaks to the indelible imprint that love leaves on the human heart. Love has the power to shape and define a person's emotions, memories, and experiences, and its impact can be long-lasting. Whether through joy or sorrow, love's influence remains etched in the heart and mind, creating a lasting impression that endures beyond the passage of time.
The second part of the quote, "But as truly loves on to the close," encapsulates the idea that genuine love does not diminish or fade with the passage of time. Instead, it continues to thrive and endure, remaining steadfast until the end. This aspect of the quote suggests that love is not bound by temporal constraints but rather transcends the limitations of time, continuing to enrich and sustain those who have experienced it.
One interpretation of More's quote is that true love is not confined to a specific moment or period in one's life but extends indefinitely, carrying its profound impact forward. It emphasizes the enduring nature of love, its ability to persist through life's challenges and changes, and its capacity to bring solace and joy even as one approaches the end of life.
The quote also suggests that the essence of love lies in its ability to endure, evolve, and remain a constant source of comfort and strength. It captures the resilience and unwavering nature of love, portraying it as a force that transcends the boundaries of mortality and continues to shape and enrich the human experience.
In conclusion, Thomas More's quote serves as a timeless reminder of the enduring nature of love and its ability to persist and flourish throughout a lifetime. It conveys a profound understanding of the transformative power of love, emphasizing its capacity to leave an indelible mark on the human heart and to endure as a source of comfort and joy. More's words resonate with the universal human experience of love, offering solace and inspiration to those who have been touched by its enduring presence.