Meaning: The quote "But you are alone. Yet I never tell what you are. And if your face lights up my world as no other can - well, this feeling too, when viewed as the mere psychologist has to view it, appears to be simply what all the other friends report about their friends" by Josiah Royce, a philosopher, reflects on the complexity of human emotions and relationships. In this quote, Royce seems to be contemplating the uniqueness of an individual and the profound impact they can have on someone's life.

The first part of the quote, "But you are alone. Yet I never tell what you are," suggests a sense of solitude and individuality. It conveys the idea that despite being alone, there is a mysterious and unspoken quality about the person being addressed. This could imply that each person has their own inner world and essence that remains enigmatic and unexplainable to others.

The second part, "And if your face lights up my world as no other can," speaks to the profound influence and significance that a particular person holds in the speaker's life. The imagery of someone's face lighting up the world emphasizes the immense impact and joy that this individual brings, implying a deep emotional connection and admiration.

The quote concludes with the line, "well, this feeling too, when viewed as the mere psychologist has to view it, appears to be simply what all the other friends report about their friends." Here, Royce seems to acknowledge the limitations of trying to rationalize or analyze such feelings from a psychological standpoint. He acknowledges that from a clinical or objective perspective, the emotions and connections between individuals may seem commonplace or similar to what others experience. However, he also implies that the subjective, emotional experience of this connection transcends any attempt to reduce it to a mere psychological phenomenon.

Josiah Royce, the philosopher behind this quote, was known for his work in idealism and his exploration of the nature of community and individuality. His philosophical ideas often revolved around the concepts of loyalty, the self, and the interconnectedness of individuals within a community. This quote aligns with his broader philosophical themes by delving into the complexities of human relationships and the profound impact that individuals can have on each other.

Overall, this quote prompts contemplation on the enigmatic nature of individuality, the depth of emotional connections, and the limitations of psychological analysis when it comes to understanding the profound impact of certain individuals in our lives. It invites reflection on the unique and unexplainable aspects of human relationships that transcend mere psychological explanations.