Meaning: The quote "If hopes were dupes, fears may be liars" is from the poem "Amours de Voyage" by Arthur Clough, an English poet of the Victorian era. This thought-provoking line reflects Clough's contemplation of the complexities of human emotions and the contrast between hope and fear.

In this quote, Clough suggests that while hopes may lead to disappointment, fears can also deceive us. By using the term "dupes" to describe hopes and "liars" to describe fears, Clough implies that both emotions have the potential to mislead or betray us. This idea challenges the conventional notion that hope is positive and fear is negative, highlighting the nuanced nature of these emotions.

Arthur Clough was known for his philosophical approach to poetry, and "Amours de Voyage" is a reflective and introspective work that explores themes of love, disillusionment, and the human experience. The poem was written during Clough's travels in Italy and France, and it captures the uncertainty and complexity of life through its exploration of love and relationships.

The quote can be interpreted in various ways, and its meaning may resonate differently with each reader. One interpretation is that Clough is cautioning against placing too much trust in either hopes or fears, as both can be deceptive in their own ways. Another interpretation is that he is highlighting the paradoxical nature of human emotions, suggesting that hopes and fears are intertwined and can both lead to misguided perceptions.

Furthermore, the quote can be seen as a reflection of the human tendency to project expectations onto the future based on hopes or fears, often leading to disappointment or misjudgment. Clough's exploration of the duality of hopes and fears encourages readers to consider the complexities of their own emotional experiences and the ways in which these emotions shape their perceptions and actions.

Overall, the quote "If hopes were dupes, fears may be liars" encapsulates Arthur Clough's philosophical insight into the intricacies of human emotions and the paradoxes of hope and fear. It invites readers to contemplate the nature of these emotions and their influence on human experience, while also acknowledging the potential for both hopes and fears to deceive and mislead.