Dorothy Dunnett Quotes

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The price one pays for pursuing any passion, be it playing the piano or plotting the fall of an usurper, is an equal and unremitting vulnerability to every kind of pain."

This quote by Dorothy Dunnett suggests that engaging deeply in any passion, whether it's a creative pursuit like playing the piano or a more ambitious endeavor like plotting against an usurper, exposes one to an equal and constant risk of suffering various forms of pain. Passionate individuals are not immune to hardships; instead, they choose to endure the pain that comes with their chosen path, as it is often seen as essential for achieving their goals or fulfilling their dreams.

"In truth, there is no such thing as a perfect love, but there are loves which, because they are more than half-way perfect, are worth the trying for."

This quote suggests that while true perfection may be unattainable in any human relationship (love), relationships that embody a significant degree of goodness, understanding, and mutual respect are still worthy of our time, effort, and commitment. The implication is that even imperfect loves can bring profound satisfaction, growth, and happiness to those involved, making them worth pursuing and nurturing.

"To have loved at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything and your heart will be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give it to no one, not even an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your emotions and then throw away the key."

This quote by Dorothy Dunnett emphasizes the vulnerability inherent in love, suggesting that to love is to open oneself up to potential pain and heartbreak. She proposes that if one wishes to avoid emotional hurt, they must refrain from loving others, or even animals, as such connections can lead to emotional wounds. Instead, she recommends filling one's life with hobbies, luxuries, and emotions-based activities, essentially creating a self-contained world to protect oneself from love-related suffering.

"The only time a woman needs a man is when she's pregnant. Otherwise, a woman can do anything a man can do, only better."

This quote suggests a perspective that women are self-reliant and capable of achieving the same feats as men, if not superiorly so. The author implies that in most circumstances, a woman does not require a man's presence or assistance. However, it should be noted that this view may oversimplify gender roles and underrepresent the collaborative nature of human relationships. The quote is thought-provoking but potentially limited in its perspective, as it overlooks the unique contributions and strengths each gender brings to various situations.

"We have an illusion that we are in control of our lives. We are not. There are vast currents flowing beneath and around us, and we are the vessels which ride these rivers where they will."

This quote by Dorothy Dunnett suggests that while it may appear as though we have control over our own lives, in reality, there are deeper, unseen forces shaping our experiences. We are like boats riding on currents; we can steer, but ultimately, the underlying streams determine where we go. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and navigating these invisible influences to better understand our life's journey.