For a gift that does not find balance and a service that is not returned are worth less than a curse

For a gift that does not find balance and a service that is not returned are worth less than a curse

Mark Helprin is an acclaimed American novelist and journalist known for his lyrical prose and intricate storytelling. In his works, he often explores themes of love, loss, and the human condition. One of the recurring motifs in his writing is the idea of balance and reciprocity, which is reflected in the quote, “For a gift that does not find balance and a service that is not returned are worth less than a curse.”

This quote encapsulates the importance of reciprocity and balance in relationships, whether they be personal, professional, or societal. In Helprin’s novels, characters often grapple with the consequences of unbalanced relationships and unreturned favors. They learn that a gift given without the expectation of reciprocity may lose its value, just as a service rendered without gratitude or acknowledgment may feel hollow.