Meaning: The quote "I know nothing about platonic love except that it is not to be found in the works of Plato" by Edgar Jepson, a writer, is a witty and paradoxical statement that plays on the popular misconception about the origin of the term "platonic love." In this quote, Jepson suggests that despite the association of the term with the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, the concept of platonic love does not actually originate from Plato's works. Instead, it reflects a modern interpretation and usage of the term that is not directly derived from Plato's writings.

Plato, the famed philosopher of ancient Greece, is often credited with the concept of platonic love. The term "platonic love" commonly refers to a non-sexual, spiritual, or idealized form of love, often characterized by deep emotional and intellectual connection, without the physical aspects of romantic or sexual love. This notion is commonly associated with Plato's writings, particularly his dialogues such as the "Symposium" and the "Phaedrus," where the concept of love and the pursuit of wisdom are explored.

However, Jepson's quote challenges this popular attribution and prompts a reconsideration of the origins of platonic love. It suggests that the modern understanding of platonic love has evolved beyond its original philosophical context and may have been influenced by interpretations and adaptations of Plato's ideas over time.

The term "platonic love" itself has become a widely used expression in contemporary discourse to describe various forms of non-romantic affection and connection. It is often invoked to denote relationships that are based on mutual respect, admiration, and emotional intimacy without the presence of sexual desire or physical intimacy. This understanding of platonic love has permeated popular culture, literature, and everyday language, shaping how people conceptualize different types of relationships.

Despite its contemporary usage, the concept of platonic love has a complex history that extends beyond Plato's philosophical works. In ancient Greece, the term "Platonic" was associated with Plato's teachings and philosophical ideas, but it did not necessarily refer exclusively to the notion of non-romantic love. Plato's dialogues, such as the "Symposium," do explore the nature of love and the pursuit of wisdom, but the modern interpretation of platonic love as a distinct category of affection is a later development.

The quote by Jepson sheds light on the evolving nature of language and concepts, highlighting how ideas can be reshaped and reinterpreted over time. It serves as a playful reminder that the origins of terms and concepts may not always align with popular belief or common understanding. By attributing the absence of platonic love in Plato's works, Jepson invites contemplation on the fluidity of language and the ways in which meanings can shift across different historical and cultural contexts.

In conclusion, Edgar Jepson's quote challenges the conventional association of platonic love with the works of Plato, prompting a reconsideration of the origins and evolution of the concept. It invites us to critically examine the complexities of language, interpretation, and the cultural transmission of ideas. While the term "platonic love" may evoke images of ancient philosophy, Jepson's wry observation serves as a reminder that the true origins and meanings of concepts can often defy conventional wisdom.