Meaning: This quote by the Roman poet Ovid reflects on the idea that absence can sometimes bring people closer together. It suggests that being apart from someone allows for a deeper understanding of that person, similar to how individuals may come to know themselves better during times of hardship or suffering. Ovid compares the effect of absence on a friendship to the way in which self-reflection during affliction can lead to a truer understanding of oneself.

Ovid, also known as Publius Ovidius Naso, was a Roman poet who lived during the reign of Emperor Augustus. He is best known for his works "Metamorphoses" and "The Art of Love," which have had a lasting influence on Western literature and art. Ovid's writing often explored themes of love, transformation, and the complexities of human emotions.

In this particular quote, Ovid uses the metaphor of a long absence to convey the idea that distance can sometimes enhance the bond between friends. He suggests that being apart from a friend for an extended period allows for a more genuine and unfiltered view of that person. Just as individuals may gain insight into their own character and values during times of adversity, Ovid proposes that absence can offer a similar opportunity for deeper understanding in relationships.

The comparison between long absence and long affliction is significant in Ovid's quote. Affliction often forces individuals to confront their innermost thoughts and emotions, leading to a more profound understanding of themselves. Similarly, Ovid suggests that absence can provide a different perspective on a friend, allowing for a clearer and more authentic perception of that person.

The use of the phrase "absence does but hold off a friend" implies that distance temporarily separates friends, but it ultimately serves to reveal their true nature. Ovid suggests that the absence of a friend acts as a temporary barrier that holds them at a distance, yet this distance ultimately allows for a more genuine and unobstructed view of the friend's character and qualities.

The quote also implies that the true nature of a friend may not always be fully evident in their presence. Ovid suggests that it is through the lens of absence that one can see a friend "the truer," indicating that distance can provide a more authentic and unfiltered understanding of the friend's essence.

In summary, Ovid's quote reflects on the idea that absence can lead to a deeper and more genuine understanding of a friend. By comparing the effect of absence to the self-awareness gained during affliction, Ovid suggests that distance can offer a clearer perspective on a friend's true nature. This quote encapsulates Ovid's contemplation of human relationships and the complexities of understanding and knowing others.