Meaning: The quote "Every time I look at you I get a fierce desire to be lonesome" by Oscar Levant is a poignant and enigmatic expression of conflicting emotions. Oscar Levant was an American pianist, composer, and actor known for his wit and acerbic humor. This quote reflects Levant's complex and often turbulent inner world, as well as his ability to convey profound emotions through succinct and thought-provoking language.

On the surface, the quote appears paradoxical, as it seems to suggest that the act of looking at someone triggers a longing for solitude and isolation. This sentiment may be interpreted as a reflection of Levant's experience of inner turmoil and the struggle to reconcile conflicting feelings. The juxtaposition of "fierce desire" and "lonesome" conveys a sense of intensity and yearning, hinting at the depth of emotion underlying the statement.

One possible interpretation of this quote is that the act of looking at someone evokes a sense of longing for the simplicity and clarity of solitude. It may reflect a desire to escape the complexities and uncertainties of human relationships and retreat into the comfort of solitude. This sentiment aligns with the stereotype of the tormented artist or creative individual who experiences a deep sense of isolation despite being surrounded by others.

Furthermore, the quote could also be interpreted as a reflection of the emotional intensity and vulnerability that can accompany human connection. The juxtaposition of "fierce desire" and "lonesome" suggests a yearning for emotional independence while also acknowledging the power of human connection to evoke strong emotions. This duality captures the complexity of human relationships and the internal conflicts that can arise from the interplay of desire and solitude.

In the context of Levant's personal life, the quote may offer insight into his own struggles with mental health and emotional well-being. Levant was known for his struggles with depression and anxiety, and his candidness about these issues contributed to his reputation as a complex and multifaceted personality. The quote may therefore be seen as a reflection of Levant's internal battles and his efforts to navigate the emotional turbulence of his own psyche.

From a broader perspective, the quote can also be interpreted as a universal expression of the complexities of human emotion and the paradoxical nature of desire. It speaks to the inherent tension between the desire for connection and the yearning for solitude, capturing the ebb and flow of human emotions and the intricate interplay of conflicting feelings.

In conclusion, Oscar Levant's quote "Every time I look at you I get a fierce desire to be lonesome" encapsulates a complex and enigmatic blend of emotions. It invites contemplation and interpretation, offering a glimpse into the inner world of a multifaceted artist and the universal complexities of human emotion. This quote serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate interplay of desire, solitude, and human connection in the tapestry of human experience.