It is not likely that posterity will fall in love with us, but not impossible that it may respect or sympathize so a man would rather leave behind him the portrait of his spirit than a portrait of his face.

Meaning

At its core, the quote expresses a belief about love. It implies that love deepens through honesty and openness, and invites reflection on we value our close relationships.

Theme

As a foundational human concern, love appears in many sayings. It matters because people seek connection and belonging, and this quote reminds us that small acts of kindness build trust.

About the Author

Robert Louis Stevenson appears frequently in quote anthologies. Their reflections often relate to themes like love.

Style and Structure

Its rhythmical and compact form uses contrast to strengthen the statement.

FAQ

What does this quote mean?
love deepens through honesty and openness.

Why is it popular?
It speaks clearly about love, making it widely relatable.

How can it be applied?
It encourages us to we value our close relationships.