Hearts are not had as a gift but hearts are earned By those who are not entirely beautiful

Hearts are not had as a gift but hearts are earned By those who are not entirely beautiful

William Butler Yeats, a renowned Irish poet and one of the foremost figures of 20th-century literature, often explored themes of love, beauty, and the complexities of the human heart in his works. In the context of the quote "Hearts are not had as a gift but hearts are earned By those who are not entirely beautiful," Yeats delves into the idea that true love and genuine connections are not based solely on outward appearances, but rather on the depth of one's character and the sincerity of their intentions.

Yeats believed that beauty, while captivating and alluring, is not the sole determinant of a person's worth or the depth of their heart. In his poem "When You Are Old," Yeats reflects on the fleeting nature of physical beauty and the enduring power of love that transcends superficial qualities. He suggests that true love is not easily won or given, but must be earned through genuine effort, understanding, and mutual respect.

The quote also speaks to the idea that those who may not conform to society's standards of beauty can still possess a profound and captivating inner beauty that shines through in their actions and interactions with others. Yeats challenges the notion that love is a transactional exchange or a commodity to be bought or sold, emphasizing instead the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and emotional connection in forming meaningful relationships.