Perhaps we all give the best of our hearts uncritically - to those who hardly think about us in return

Perhaps we all give the best of our hearts uncritically - to those who hardly think about us in return

In T.H. White's novel "The Once and Future King," the theme of unrequited love and the giving of one's heart to those who do not reciprocate is a prevalent and poignant one. The quote "Perhaps we all give the best of our hearts uncritically - to those who hardly think about us in return" encapsulates the emotional turmoil experienced by many of the characters in the novel, particularly King Arthur and Queen Guinevere.

Throughout the story, King Arthur devotes himself wholeheartedly to his kingdom and his knights, striving to create a peaceful and just society. However, despite his unwavering dedication and love for his people, he often finds himself alone and unappreciated. His knights, including his most trusted companion Lancelot, are often preoccupied with their own desires and ambitions, leaving Arthur feeling isolated and unfulfilled.

Similarly, Queen Guinevere struggles with her own feelings of unrequited love. Despite her marriage to King Arthur, she finds herself drawn to Lancelot, who is unable to reciprocate her affections due to his loyalty to the king. Guinevere's longing for a love that can never be fully realized leads her to make choices that ultimately bring about the downfall of Camelot.

The quote also speaks to the broader themes of sacrifice and selflessness that permeate the novel. Both Arthur and Guinevere give their hearts uncritically to those around them, often at great personal cost. Their willingness to love unconditionally and to put the needs of others before their own is both their greatest strength and their greatest weakness.