Then let thy love be younger than thyself, or thy affection cannot hold the bent

Then let thy love be younger than thyself, or thy affection cannot hold the bent

In William Shakespeare's works, love is a recurring theme that is explored in various forms and complexities. One of the most famous quotes related to love in Shakespeare's plays is "Then let thy love be younger than thyself, or thy affection cannot hold the bent." This line is from the play "Hamlet" and is spoken by Polonius to his son Laertes as he gives him advice before he leaves for France.

The quote suggests that love should be younger than oneself in order for it to be sustainable and enduring. In other words, the love that one feels should be fresh, new, and constantly evolving in order to maintain its strength and vitality. If one's love is stagnant or stagnant, it will not be able to withstand the challenges and obstacles that may come its way.

Shakespeare often explores the complexities of love in his plays, showing how it can be both a source of great joy and immense pain. Love is portrayed as a powerful force that can drive people to great heights of passion and devotion, but also to the depths of despair and heartbreak. The quote from "Hamlet" reflects this duality of love, suggesting that in order for love to endure, it must be constantly renewed and revitalized.

Furthermore, the quote can also be interpreted as a warning against complacency in relationships. If one's love becomes stagnant or routine, it may lose its spark and ultimately fade away. By encouraging love to be younger than oneself, Shakespeare is urging us to constantly nurture and cultivate our relationships in order to keep them alive and thriving.

Overall, the quote "Then let thy love be younger than thyself, or thy affection cannot hold the bent" encapsulates Shakespeare's profound understanding of the complexities of love and relationships. It serves as a reminder to always keep love fresh, vibrant, and evolving in order to ensure its endurance and longevity.