Meaning: The quote "Pity the selfishness of lovers: it is brief, a forlorn hope; it is impossible" by Elizabeth Bowen, a renowned novelist, captures the complex and often conflicting emotions that can arise within romantic relationships. Bowen's words suggest that the selfishness inherent in love is both fleeting and ultimately unattainable, highlighting the inherent paradoxes and challenges that lovers may face.

In this quote, Bowen seems to be addressing the notion of selfishness within the context of romantic love. The word "selfishness" typically carries negative connotations, implying a lack of concern for others and a focus primarily on one's own desires and needs. When applied to lovers, this concept takes on a unique and often paradoxical quality. On the one hand, love is often associated with selflessness, sacrifice, and a deep concern for the well-being of the beloved. However, Bowen's assertion that the selfishness of lovers is "brief" and "impossible" suggests that this self-centeredness is an inherent and perhaps unavoidable aspect of romantic relationships.

The phrase "a forlorn hope" within the quote adds a sense of melancholy and perhaps even desperation to the concept of lovers' selfishness. It evokes an image of a hope that is both fleeting and ultimately unattainable, hinting at the transient and illusory nature of selfish desires within the context of love. Bowen's use of this phrase suggests that while lovers may indeed be selfish at times, this selfishness is ultimately unsustainable and destined to disappoint.

By asserting that the selfishness of lovers is "impossible," Bowen delves into the complexities and contradictions of romantic relationships. Love often involves a delicate balance of self-interest and selflessness, as individuals seek to fulfill their own desires while also considering the needs and desires of their partners. Bowen's assertion that lovers' selfishness is impossible implies that the pursuit of individual fulfillment within a romantic context is inherently fraught and ultimately unattainable.

Elizabeth Bowen, as a novelist, was known for her keen insights into human relationships and emotions. Her writings often delved into the intricacies of love, desire, and the complexities of interpersonal connections. In this quote, Bowen offers a thought-provoking reflection on the nature of selfishness within the context of romantic love, challenging conventional notions of selflessness and suggesting that selfish desires are an inherent and perhaps unavoidable aspect of intimate relationships.

In conclusion, Elizabeth Bowen's quote "Pity the selfishness of lovers: it is brief, a forlorn hope; it is impossible" offers a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of love and selfishness. By highlighting the transient and ultimately unattainable nature of lovers' selfish desires, Bowen invites readers to consider the paradoxes and challenges inherent in romantic relationships. Her words resonate with the universal complexities of human emotions and relationships, offering a compelling insight into the often contradictory nature of love.