"Mistresses are like books; if you pore upon them too much, they doze you and make you unfit for company; but if used discreetly, you are the fitter for conversation by em"

William Wycherley, a prominent playwright of the Restoration era, often instilled his deal with wit and satire, especially relating to social custom-mades and relationships. This quote discuss the complex characteristics of romantic liaisons and reflects the duration's attitudes toward relationships and intellectual engagement.

Wycherley compares mistresses to books, suggesting that both need a well balanced approach to stay helpful to people. By likening mistresses to books, Wycherley is most likely commenting on the nature of passion and its impact on one's social behavior. Books, when excessively pored over, can cause a type of intellectual stupor or obsession, therefore diminishing one's capability to engage with the world. Similarly, a ruthless focus on a romantic relationship may result in a type of emotional saturation, dulling one's interactions with the more comprehensive social circle.

The idea of "dozing" implies a state of sleepiness or forgetfulness, which could be analyzed as a caution against becoming too absorbed in any single pursuit to the detriment of one's capability to connect meaningfully with society. Balance is essential; simply as engaging with literature improves one's ability for conversation and insight if done carefully, romantic engagements, when handled with discretion, can enrich one's social and conversational abilities.

Wycherley's usage of the term "inconspicuously" underscores a recommendation for small amounts and tact. Romantic entanglements, like intellectual endeavors, should be approached with a particular vigilance to ensure they serve to enhance instead of hinder one's life. Eventually, the underlying message has to do with moderation and the worth of preserving a well-rounded life that enables intellectual, psychological, and social growth without succumbing to excess or fixation. This perspective underscores the Restoration period's emphasis on wit, balance, and the art of discussion.