In simple terms, the statement suggests that one should remain in a perpetual state of infatuation and admiration without committing fully through marriage. It implies that love should be an ongoing pursuit rather than a definitive union.
On a deeper level, this remark touches upon the nature of romantic relationships and the essence of what it means to love someone deeply versus being in a committed partnership. Wilde seems to argue that true romance is about the thrill of desire and the constant discovery of new qualities in another person, which diminishes once those feelings are encapsulated by formal commitments like marriage. This perspective challenges conventional views on relationship stability and suggests that the essence of romantic love lies in its unpredictability and dynamism, rather than in lifelong constancy.
Oscar Wilde was a renowned Irish writer and poet who lived from 1854 to 1900. Known for his sharp wit and eloquent aphorisms, Wilde's work often explored themes of love, beauty, and societal norms. His plays, such as "The Importance of Being Earnest," are celebrated for their clever dialogue and satirical critique of Victorian society.
