The ostentation of our love, which, left unshown, is often left unloved

The ostentation of our love, which, left unshown, is often left unloved

In the works of William Shakespeare, the theme of love is a central and recurring motif. Love is portrayed in various forms - romantic, familial, platonic - and is often depicted as a powerful force that can bring joy, sorrow, and even tragedy. One of the most intriguing aspects of Shakespeare's exploration of love is the idea that love must be openly expressed in order to be truly appreciated and reciprocated.

In his plays, Shakespeare often presents characters who struggle with expressing their love openly. These characters may feel deep affection for another person, but are unable or unwilling to show it. This reluctance to openly display their love can have dire consequences, as seen in tragedies like "Romeo and Juliet" and "Othello". In these plays, the failure to openly express love leads to misunderstandings, jealousy, and ultimately, tragedy.

One of Shakespeare's most famous quotes on the subject of love comes from his play "As You Like It": "The more pity that fools may not speak wisely what wise men do foolishly." This quote speaks to the idea that love, when left unexpressed, is often unappreciated and unreciprocated. In other words, if we do not openly show our love for someone, they may not realize the depth of our feelings and may not return them in kind.

Shakespeare also explores the idea that ostentation, or outward display, of love is necessary for it to be truly felt and appreciated. In plays like "Twelfth Night" and "A Midsummer Night's Dream", characters go to great lengths to demonstrate their love for another person. These displays of affection may be grand gestures, like writing love letters or staging elaborate performances, or they may be more subtle, like a simple touch or a kind word. Regardless of the form they take, these displays of love are essential for the characters to truly connect with one another and experience the full depth of their emotions.