Meaning: The quote by Isak Dinesen, the pseudonym of Danish author Karen Blixen, delves into the nature of love and how it evolves over time. The statement suggests that when people are very young, their experience of love is devoid of true depth or understanding, as they are driven by primal urges or the desire to lose themselves in the intoxicating emotions of romance. It is only as individuals mature that they begin to appreciate the nuanced complexities and individuality of love, akin to savoring the unique qualities of a fine wine.

Isak Dinesen, known for her masterful storytelling and evocative prose, often explored themes of love, loss, and the human experience in her works. Within the context of this quote, Dinesen seems to be highlighting the difference between youthful infatuation and the more profound, introspective nature of love that emerges with age and experience.

When Dinesen speaks of love as a "heartless business" in the context of very young people, she appears to be alluding to the impulsive and often capricious nature of young love. At a tender age, individuals may be driven by a yearning for emotional fulfillment, seeking to quench their thirst for affection or to lose themselves in the heady rush of romantic entanglements. This portrayal of young love as "heartless" suggests a lack of consideration for the deeper emotional and intellectual aspects of relationships, with a focus instead on the immediate gratification or excitement that love can bring.

The analogy of drinking from thirst or to get drunk serves to underscore the impulsive and often reckless nature of youthful love. Just as individuals may drink solely to satisfy a physical need for hydration or to seek inebriation without regard for the qualities of the beverage, so too may young people pursue love without a deeper understanding of its complexities or the unique qualities of their partner.

However, Dinesen's observation that "it is only later in life that we occupy ourselves with the individuality of our wine" suggests a significant shift in perspective as individuals mature. As people grow older and gain experience, they begin to appreciate the individuality of love and the unique qualities of their romantic partners. This shift parallels the way a connoisseur savors and contemplates the distinct characteristics of a fine wine, taking the time to understand and appreciate its nuances.

In essence, Dinesen's quote captures the evolution of love from a youthful, impulsive pursuit to a more contemplative and individualized experience. It speaks to the transformation that occurs as individuals mature and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships. Ultimately, the quote invites reflection on the nature of love, urging readers to consider how their own experiences of love have evolved over time and the ways in which they have come to appreciate its individuality and complexity.