Love's Labours Achieve Nothing

          I spent my day today reading Essays and Counsels, Moral and Civil by Sir Francis Bacon. That guy knew a hell of a lot of stuff, I’ve got to admit. Some of his writing is quite insightful and profound, but I have to disagree with his view of love. He seems to think that for a man to be truly successful in life he must keep his mind clear and not befuddled with the curse of love:

 

“You may observe, that amongst all the great and worthy persons (whereof the memory remaineth, either ancient or recent), there is not one that hath been transported to the mad degree of love.”

 

But most remarkably said (though I may disagree):

 

“Nuptial love maketh mankind; friendly love perfecteth it; but wanton love corrupteth and embaseth it.”

 

            I want to believe in wanton love. I just wish it wanted to believe in me.