"I love my work with a frenetic and perverse love, as an ascetic loves the hair shirt which scratches his belly"

In this quote, Gustave Flaubert expresses his intense enthusiasm for his work. He compares it to a frenzied and twisted love, suggesting that he is deeply devoted to his craft. The use of the word "mad" implies a sense of seriousness and excitement, while "perverse" recommends a particular level of non-traditional or non-traditional love. Flaubert then goes on to compare his love for his work to that of an ascetic's love for a hair shirt. This contrast highlights the concept that his love for his work is hard or comfortable, however rather a form of self-control and sacrifice. In general, this quote showcases Flaubert's commitment and commitment to his art.