Meaning: This quote by James Baldwin draws a comparison between money and sex, highlighting the intense preoccupation one can have with both when they are lacking and the relative lack of preoccupation when they are abundant. The quote is a thought-provoking exploration of human nature and the role that money plays in our lives.

One interpretation of the quote is that when an individual lacks money, it becomes a consuming obsession. The constant worry about financial security and the struggle to make ends meet can dominate a person's thoughts and actions. The stress and anxiety associated with financial instability can lead to a fixation on money, much like the way a person might obsess over sex when it is absent from their life.

On the other hand, when a person has sufficient money, it no longer occupies the same level of mental preoccupation. This is similar to the way that once one is satisfied sexually, their thoughts can shift to other areas of life. When basic financial needs are met, individuals are able to focus on other aspects of their lives such as relationships, personal growth, and fulfillment. The quote suggests that the absence or presence of money can significantly impact the mental and emotional space it occupies in one's life.

James Baldwin, the author of the quote, was an influential American writer and social critic known for his exploration of themes such as race, sexuality, and identity. In his work, Baldwin often delved into the complexities of human experience and the societal forces that shape individuals. This quote reflects his keen insight into the human condition and the ways in which external factors, such as money, can shape our perceptions and priorities.

The comparison between money and sex in the quote also speaks to the primal and deeply ingrained nature of these two aspects of human existence. Both money and sex are fundamental to the human experience, and their presence or absence can have a profound impact on an individual's well-being and sense of fulfillment. The quote serves as a reminder of the powerful influence that these basic human needs can exert on our thoughts and behaviors.

Furthermore, the quote raises questions about the nature of desire and fulfillment. It suggests that the pursuit of money, like the pursuit of sex, can become all-consuming when it is elusive. This speaks to the fundamental human drive to seek out and secure resources necessary for survival and comfort. The quote also implies that once these needs are met, our attention can shift to other aspects of life, such as personal relationships, self-expression, and spiritual fulfillment.

In conclusion, James Baldwin's quote offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human relationship with money and the parallels it shares with our relationship with sex. It invites reflection on the ways in which these fundamental aspects of human existence shape our thoughts, desires, and priorities. The quote serves as a reminder of the profound influence that money can have on our mental and emotional well-being and invites contemplation on the nature of desire, fulfillment, and the pursuit of a balanced and meaningful life.