Meaning: The quote "How do you know love is gone? If you said that you would be there at seven and you get there by nine, and he or she has not called the police yet - it's gone." by Marlene Dietrich, a renowned German-American actress, encapsulates a wry sense of humor and a poignant observation about the nature of love. Marlene Dietrich was known for her wit and wisdom, and this quote reflects her astute understanding of human relationships.

In this quote, Marlene Dietrich humorously highlights the importance of punctuality and consideration in a relationship. She uses the extreme scenario of being two hours late for a meeting to illustrate the diminishing value of love when one's actions no longer elicit concern or worry from their partner. The notion of not calling the police as a threshold for love being gone adds a darkly comic touch to the quote, emphasizing the absurdity of the situation.

This quote resonates with many people because it encapsulates the universal experience of disappointment and disillusionment in relationships. Love is often associated with dependability, communication, and mutual respect. When these qualities are absent, love can feel diminished or lost. Marlene Dietrich's succinct and humorous expression of this concept makes it relatable and thought-provoking.

It's important to note that this quote should not be taken too literally. Marlene Dietrich's intention was not to provide a strict rule for determining the presence or absence of love. Instead, she used exaggeration and humor to shed light on the emotional dynamics of relationships. By presenting an extreme scenario, she prompts her audience to reflect on the significance of trust, reliability, and consideration in their own relationships.

Marlene Dietrich's own life experiences likely informed her perspective on love and relationships. As a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, she navigated the complexities of fame, romance, and personal identity. Her insight into the fleeting nature of love may have been shaped by her own encounters with love's triumphs and disappointments.

Furthermore, this quote reflects the timeless nature of human emotions and relationships. Despite being attributed to Marlene Dietrich, the sentiment expressed is not confined to a specific era or cultural context. The desire for mutual respect, consideration, and emotional security in relationships is a universal human experience that transcends time and place.

In conclusion, Marlene Dietrich's quote about knowing when love is gone is a clever and insightful commentary on the dynamics of relationships. It combines humor with a profound observation about the erosion of love in the absence of trust and consideration. By employing exaggeration and wit, Dietrich invites her audience to contemplate the essential qualities of love and the impact of neglecting them. This quote continues to resonate with people due to its relatability and enduring relevance in understanding the complexities of human emotions and relationships.