Remember the botched brothel-visit in LโEducation sentimentale and remember its lesson. Do not participate: happiness lies in the imagination, not the act. Pleasure is found first in anticipation, later in memory.
Julian BarnesWhen we fall in love, we hope - both egotistically and altruistically - that we shall be finally, truly seen: judged and approved. Of course, love does not always bring approval: being seen may just as well lead to a thumbs-down and a season in hell.
Julian BarnesPride makes us long for a solution to things โ a solution, a purpose, a final cause; but the better telescopes become, the more stars appear.
Julian Barnes