Meaning: The quote "Among absent lovers, ardor always fares better" by Sextus Propertius, a Roman elegiac poet, encapsulates the enduring theme of love and longing in literature. Propertius, who lived during the first century BCE, is known for his passionate poetry, particularly his elegies that often express the pain and intensity of love. This quote reflects the idea that distance and separation can sometimes intensify feelings of love and desire, creating a heightened sense of longing and ardor between lovers.

In the context of Propertius' poetry, this quote likely speaks to the idea that physical distance can serve to deepen emotional connections. The absence of a lover can lead to an increased yearning and passion, as the imagination and memory become powerful tools for sustaining love in the lover's absence. Propertius often explored the themes of separation and longing in his poetry, portraying the emotional turmoil and fervent desire that accompany love and distance.

The quote also touches upon the notion that absence can enhance the romantic idealization of a partner. When lovers are apart, they may romanticize and idealize each other, focusing on the positive aspects of their relationship and creating an idealized image of their beloved. This idealization can contribute to a sense of heightened ardor and passion, as the longing for the absent lover is intertwined with an idealized perception of them.

Furthermore, the quote suggests that absence can serve to sustain and even enhance the intensity of passion in a relationship. The longing and yearning that accompany separation can fuel the fervor of love, as the anticipation of being reunited with the beloved amplifies the emotional connection between lovers. Propertius' poetry often delves into the complexities of love and desire, and this quote reflects the idea that distance can paradoxically strengthen and sustain ardor in romantic relationships.

In a broader sense, the quote resonates with the timeless theme of love in literature and art. Throughout history, countless poets, writers, and artists have explored the profound impact of absence on love and longing. From Shakespearean sonnets to modern novels, the theme of absent lovers and the enduring ardor that accompanies separation has been a recurring motif in literature and art.

This quote from Sextus Propertius captures the enduring nature of human emotions and the complexities of romantic relationships. It speaks to the universal experience of longing and desire, highlighting the ways in which absence can intensify the ardor between lovers. Propertius' timeless words continue to resonate with readers, offering insight into the enduring power of love and the enduring impact of absence on romantic relationships.