Can you never like things without clutching them as if you wanted to pull the heart out of them?

Can you never like things without clutching them as if you wanted to pull the heart out of them?

D.H. Lawrence, a renowned English writer, poet, and literary critic, is known for his deep exploration of human emotions and relationships in his works. One of his most famous quotes, "Can you never like things without clutching them as if you wanted to pull the heart out of them?" reflects his profound understanding of the complexities of human nature and the intensity with which people often approach their desires and passions.

In this quote, Lawrence seems to be questioning the tendency of some individuals to hold onto things with such fervor and intensity that it borders on obsession. He seems to be suggesting that there is a fine line between appreciating something or someone and becoming possessive or controlling in one's attachment to them. Lawrence's words evoke a sense of longing and desperation, as if he is cautioning against the dangers of becoming too emotionally invested in something or someone to the point of losing oneself in the process.

Lawrence's own life and relationships were marked by intense emotions and passionate attachments, which often found their way into his writing. His novels, such as "Lady Chatterley's Lover" and "Sons and Lovers," explore themes of love, desire, and the complexities of human relationships with a raw and unflinching honesty. Lawrence's characters are often portrayed as struggling to navigate the turbulent waters of their own emotions, grappling with the conflicting desires of their hearts and minds.