Meaning: Samuel Coleridge's quote delves into the complex nature of relationships, particularly the distinction between sympathy and love. In this quote, Coleridge suggests that while sympathy forms the basis of friendship, love involves a more intricate interplay of emotions, including a sense of opposition or antipathy. He posits that in love, there is a mutual striving to become one with the other, resulting in a harmonious whole.

The notion of sympathy as a cornerstone of friendship aligns with the idea that understanding and sharing in another person's emotions and experiences are fundamental to fostering a strong connection. Sympathy involves the ability to empathize and offer support, creating a bond that is often characteristic of close friendships. Coleridge's assertion that sympathy constitutes friendship underscores the importance of emotional connection and mutual understanding in the formation and maintenance of friendships.

In contrast, Coleridge introduces the concept of antipathy within the context of love. Antipathy typically denotes a strong aversion or opposition to something or someone. In the context of love, Coleridge suggests that there is a certain opposition or conflicting passion inherent in this intense emotional state. This notion challenges the conventional view of love as a purely harmonious and unifying force, highlighting the complexity and dynamics that can be present in deep romantic relationships.

Coleridge's further exploration of love as a state in which each individual strives to become the other sheds light on the transformative nature of love. It suggests that in the pursuit of love, there is a mutual desire for unity and a blending of identities. This idea aligns with the notion of love as a merging of two individuals into a cohesive whole, where the boundaries between self and other become blurred.

The concept of love as a union of opposing passions and the idea that both individuals in a relationship contribute to forming a unified whole challenges the traditional view of love as a purely harmonious and effortless state. Coleridge's perspective highlights the complexities and tensions inherent in love, acknowledging that it encompasses both unity and opposition, and that it requires effort and mutual striving to achieve a balanced and harmonious relationship.

In conclusion, Samuel Coleridge's quote offers a thought-provoking exploration of the dynamics of relationships, emphasizing the distinction between sympathy and love. By delving into the interplay of emotions, including antipathy and the mutual striving for unity, Coleridge provides insight into the multifaceted nature of love and the complexities that underpin deep emotional connections. His contemplation prompts a reconsideration of the traditional notions of love and friendship, inviting a deeper understanding of the intricacies of human relationships.