In literature as in love, we are astonished at what is chosen by others.

In this quote, André Maurois, a French author, draws a parallel between literature and love, highlighting the surprising nature of choice in both realms. He suggests that, much like in romantic relationships, we often find ourselves astonished or taken aback by the preferences and choices of others, whether in the characters they admire in literature or the people they love. This reflects how deeply personal tastes can be and how they can sometimes be difficult to understand or predict.

Maurois’ comparison emphasizes the subjective nature of both love and literary taste. Just as people are drawn to certain individuals for reasons that may not always be immediately clear to others, they are also captivated by particular stories, genres, or authors that may seem odd or unexpected. This element of surprise points to the mysterious and unpredictable ways in which our emotions and preferences develop, making the act of choosing something—whether a partner or a book—intriguing and sometimes incomprehensible to onlookers.

The quote also underscores the diversity of human experience and perception. In both love and literature, people are guided by their own individual experiences, desires, and backgrounds. What one person finds captivating or meaningful may differ greatly from someone else’s perspective, making both romantic choices and literary preferences deeply personal and often surprising. Maurois is pointing out the beauty of this diversity, as it adds layers of complexity to human interaction and creative expression.

Ultimately, Maurois is reminding us that the things we choose—whether in love or in literature—are shaped by our unique perspectives, and those choices may often confound others. The astonishment we feel when encountering someone else’s choices is a reflection of how deeply personal and sometimes mysterious human tastes and emotions can be, making both love and literature endlessly fascinating.