Meaning: The quote by Joseph Campbell delves into the complex nature of love, marriage, and spiritual identity. Campbell was a renowned American mythologist, writer, and lecturer, best known for his work in comparative mythology and comparative religion. In this quote, he offers a thought-provoking perspective on the reasons behind marriage and the nature of love.

Campbell starts by contrasting the idea of getting married for the sake of a long-term love affair with the recognition of spiritual identity through marriage. He suggests that those who enter into marriage solely for the romantic notion of a long-lasting love affair are destined for disappointment. According to Campbell, all love affairs eventually lead to disillusionment and disappointment. This notion challenges the idealized and often unrealistic expectations people may have about romantic relationships.

The disillusionment that Campbell refers to in love affairs can be attributed to the initial infatuation and passion that often characterizes the early stages of a relationship. As time goes on, the intensity of these feelings can wane, leading to a sense of disappointment when reality does not align with the romanticized expectations. Campbell's insight highlights the transient nature of infatuation and romantic love, and the potential pitfalls of basing a marriage solely on these fleeting emotions.

On the other hand, Campbell presents marriage as a recognition of spiritual identity. By framing marriage in this way, he emphasizes the deeper, more profound aspects of the marital union. Rather than viewing marriage as solely a romantic endeavor, Campbell suggests that it is a symbolic acknowledgment of a spiritual connection between two individuals. This spiritual identity can encompass shared values, beliefs, and a mutual understanding that transcends the ephemeral nature of romantic love.

Campbell's perspective on marriage aligns with the idea that a successful and enduring marital relationship requires more than just romantic love. It involves a deeper connection that extends beyond fleeting emotions and encompasses a shared spiritual identity. This notion challenges individuals to consider the broader significance of marriage and the potential for personal and spiritual growth within the marital union.

In essence, Campbell's quote encourages individuals to examine their motivations for entering into marriage and to recognize the deeper spiritual implications of this commitment. By highlighting the limitations of basing a marriage solely on the premise of a long-term love affair, he prompts a reevaluation of the foundations of marital relationships. Campbell's insights offer a valuable perspective on the complexities of love, marriage, and the pursuit of a meaningful and enduring connection with another person.

Overall, Campbell's quote provokes contemplation on the nature of love, marriage, and spiritual identity, challenging conventional views and encouraging a more profound understanding of the complexities inherent in human relationships. His perspective serves as a reminder that successful marriages require a deeper connection that transcends the transient nature of romantic love, and underscores the significance of recognizing and embracing the spiritual dimensions of marital union.