Meaning: The quote "Only a struggle twists sentimentality and lust together into love" by E. Forster, a renowned novelist, captures the complex and often tumultuous nature of love. This thought-provoking statement delves into the idea that true love is not born out of easy or effortless circumstances, but rather from the challenges and conflicts that arise in relationships.

The first part of the quote, "Only a struggle twists sentimentality," suggests that sentimentality alone is not enough to form a deep and enduring connection between individuals. Sentimentality often refers to an excessive display of emotions or a nostalgic longing for the past. While these emotions may play a part in the early stages of a relationship, Forster's words imply that they are not sufficient to sustain a profound and lasting love. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of struggle in shaping the dynamics of love.

The inclusion of "lust" in the quote further complicates the equation, as it introduces the element of physical desire into the mix. Lust, often associated with intense passion and attraction, can be a powerful force in relationships. However, Forster's assertion that it must be "twisted" together with sentimentality through struggle to form love suggests that love is not merely a product of surface-level emotions or physical attraction. It requires a deeper, more profound intertwining of these elements, which can only be achieved through overcoming challenges and obstacles.

Forster's choice of the word "twists" is particularly evocative, implying a complex and intricate process of merging sentimentality and lust. This suggests that the journey towards love is not straightforward or easy, but rather marked by twists and turns that reshape and redefine the emotions involved. The implication is that love is not a static state, but rather a dynamic and evolving entity that is shaped and tested by the struggles encountered along the way.

The notion of struggle as a catalyst for love aligns with the idea that meaningful connections are often forged in the crucible of adversity. It echoes the concept of "through thick and thin," suggesting that love is not just about the good times, but also about weathering storms and facing challenges together. This perspective challenges the romanticized notions of love prevalent in popular culture, emphasizing instead the resilience and strength that emerge from navigating difficulties as a couple.

In the context of Forster's novels, such as "A Room with a View" and "A Passage to India," the theme of love and its complexities is a recurring motif. His characters often grapple with societal expectations, cultural differences, and personal conflicts, all of which contribute to the intricate tapestry of love in his stories. This quote can be seen as a reflection of the nuanced and multi-faceted portrayal of love in Forster's work, where love is not portrayed as a simple or idealized concept, but rather as a rich and intricate tapestry woven from the threads of struggle, sentimentality, and lust.

In conclusion, E. Forster's quote "Only a struggle twists sentimentality and lust together into love" offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of love. By asserting that love is born from the intertwining of sentimentality and lust through struggle, Forster challenges simplistic notions of romance and highlights the depth and complexity of meaningful connections. This quote invites contemplation on the role of adversity and resilience in the formation of love, and it resonates with the enduring themes found in Forster's literary works.