"Excess of joy is harder to bear than any amount of sorrow"

In this quote, Honore de Balzac is recommending that having too much happiness can be harder to handle than experiencing a lot of unhappiness. This might appear counterproductive, as we typically associate delight with favorable emotions and grief with unfavorable ones. Nevertheless, Balzac is highlighting the concept that extreme feelings, whether positive or unfavorable, can be overwhelming and challenging to handle. Too much happiness can cause a sense of running out control and even a fear of losing that joy, while sorrow can bring a sense of tingling or acceptance. Balzac's words remind us to pursue balance in our emotions, rather than seeking severe highs or lows.