This quote suggests that what we often perceive as love is, in fact, a myriad of different forms of envy, all of which are tinged with a certain sadness. The idea here is that our feelings of affection and attraction towards others are often rooted in our desires for what they have or who they are, rather than a pure, selfless love for them as individuals. This envy can take many forms – it could be envy for someone’s physical appearance, their success, their skills, or even their happiness. The sadness comes from the realization that these things we desire are not ours, and perhaps never will be.

Applying this concept to today’s world, we could argue that social media platforms are breeding grounds for this kind of envy. We are constantly bombarded with images and stories of other people’s lives, which can often seem more exciting, fulfilling, or successful than our own. This can lead to feelings of envy and dissatisfaction, which we might mistake for love or admiration. In this context, Auden’s quote serves as a reminder to be mindful of our feelings and motivations, and to strive for a love that is free of envy and desire.

In terms of personal development, this quote can be a powerful tool for self-reflection. By recognizing and acknowledging our feelings of envy, we can work towards overcoming them and developing a healthier and more genuine love for others. This involves learning to appreciate others for who they are, rather than what they have or what they can offer us. It also involves learning to be content with who we are and what we have, rather than constantly comparing ourselves to others and feeling inadequate as a result.