"We perceive when love begins and when it declines by our embarrassment when alone together"

Jean de la Bruyère's quote, "We perceive when love begins and when it declines by our embarrassment when alone together", speaks with the nuanced emotions present in romantic relationships. The quote suggests that the sensation of love is frequently discernible by the subtle modifications in comfort levels in between partners, especially when they remain in each other's business without diversions.

At the start of a relationship, when love is fresh and blossoming, there is typically a sense of enjoyment and newness. This stage is defined by interest, eagerness to learn more about the other individual, and a wondrous anxiety. The shame experienced throughout this stage is typically favorable, coming from the vulnerability of exposing one's real self and the excitement of brand-new romantic engagement. It's comparable to the fluttering sensation of butterflies in the stomach during a first date or an initial intimate conversation-- a sign of growing love and interest.

On the other hand, when love begins to decline, a different kind of shame may emerge. This might manifest as an uncomfortable silence or discomfort when being alone with a partner. The shared understanding and intimacy that as soon as came naturally may now feel strained, highlighting a detach or loss of commonalities. This discomfort is not simply about silence; it's an indication of emotional distance, where the sense of understanding and connection has actually waned. The profound ease and happiness that identified the relationship have been replaced with anxiety or self-consciousness about the changes in dynamic.

De la Bruyère captures the elaborate dance of romantic connection through this quote. It highlights how emotional states are often intuitively viewed rather than overtly mentioned. Love is an intricate emotion, and its development or regression can be picked up through the subtle shifts in how at ease partners feel when together. The quote highlights the value of emotional awareness and the power of non-verbal hints in understanding the health and vigor of a relationship.