Meaning: The quote "Vanity is as ill at ease under indifference as tenderness is under a love which it cannot return" is attributed to George Eliot, the pen name of the renowned English novelist Mary Ann Evans. Eliot is best known for her novels such as "Middlemarch," "The Mill on the Floss," and "Silas Marner," which explore complex human emotions and relationships. This particular quote reflects Eliot's keen understanding of human nature and the intricacies of emotions.

In this quote, Eliot draws a parallel between vanity and tenderness, two contrasting emotions, to highlight their vulnerability in different contexts. Vanity, defined as excessive pride in one's appearance, abilities, or achievements, is depicted as being unsettled in the face of indifference. This suggests that individuals who are vain seek validation and attention, and are uncomfortable when they are met with apathy or lack of admiration. Eliot's use of the phrase "ill at ease" conveys a sense of discomfort and unease experienced by those whose vanity is not reciprocated or acknowledged.

On the other hand, Eliot compares tenderness, which can be understood as the capacity to feel deep affection and compassion, to the experience of unrequited love. Tenderness, like vanity, is portrayed as being in a state of discomfort when faced with a love that it cannot return. This highlights the pain and distress felt by individuals who are unable to reciprocate the love and affection directed towards them. It also emphasizes the imbalance and emotional strain caused by unrequited love.

Eliot's insightful comparison between vanity and tenderness underscores the universal nature of human emotions and the delicate balance of validation and reciprocity that individuals seek in their interactions with others. The quote prompts reflection on the ways in which people navigate their own vulnerabilities and the complexities of human relationships.

George Eliot's works are renowned for their psychological depth and nuanced portrayal of human emotions, and this quote exemplifies her ability to capture the subtleties of the human experience. Throughout her novels, Eliot delves into the internal struggles, desires, and conflicts that shape her characters, and this quote encapsulates her astute observations on the emotional dynamics that govern human behavior.

In conclusion, George Eliot's quote "Vanity is as ill at ease under indifference as tenderness is under a love which it cannot return" offers a profound insight into the vulnerability of human emotions. Through this comparison, Eliot illuminates the discomfort experienced by individuals when their vanity is met with indifference and when tenderness is unable to be reciprocated. This quote serves as a testament to Eliot's deep understanding of human nature and her ability to articulate the intricacies of emotions in a profound and relatable manner.