Meaning: The quote "To find a friend one must close one eye - to keep him, two" by Norman Douglas encapsulates the complex nature of friendship and the dynamics of maintaining meaningful relationships. Norman Douglas was a British writer known for his travel literature and novels, and his quote reflects a profound understanding of the intricacies of human connections. This quote suggests that in order to initially connect with someone and form a friendship, one must be open-minded and accept the imperfections and differences of others. However, once a bond is established, it requires a deeper level of understanding, empathy, and acceptance to maintain the relationship.

At first glance, the phrase "To find a friend one must close one eye" may seem puzzling. It implies that when seeking out potential friends, it is important to overlook certain flaws or differences that might otherwise be off-putting. This may involve being more accepting, forgiving, and understanding of others. It suggests that in the initial stages of forming a friendship, it is important to be open-minded and not overly critical of others. This sentiment aligns with the idea that to find companionship, one must be willing to overlook minor imperfections and focus on the positive aspects of a person.

On the other hand, the second part of the quote "to keep him, two" suggests that as the friendship deepens and matures, it becomes necessary to fully recognize and accept the flaws and differences of the friend. This implies that maintaining a friendship requires a deeper level of understanding and acceptance. It signifies the need for a greater level of empathy and tolerance to sustain the relationship in the long term. When both eyes are open, it represents a fuller understanding of the other person, acknowledging their strengths and weaknesses, and accepting them for who they are.

This quote highlights the evolution of friendships and the changing dynamics that occur over time. Initially, we may be more forgiving and accommodating as we get to know someone. However, as the friendship progresses, it becomes essential to see and accept the person for who they are, with all their virtues and faults. This understanding is crucial for the sustainability of the relationship.

In essence, Norman Douglas's quote reflects the idea that friendships require a balance of acceptance and understanding. It embodies the notion that while it is important to be open-minded and forgiving when forming new friendships, it is equally important to have a deep understanding and acceptance of the other person to maintain the bond. The quote serves as a reminder that genuine friendships require effort, empathy, and a willingness to embrace both the positive and negative aspects of the other person.

In conclusion, Norman Douglas's quote "To find a friend one must close one eye - to keep him, two" encapsulates the nuances of friendship, highlighting the need for both open-mindedness and deeper understanding in forming and maintaining meaningful relationships. It serves as a valuable reminder of the complexities and depth of human connections, emphasizing the importance of empathy, acceptance, and tolerance in fostering lasting friendships.