Andre Maurois: 'If you value a man's regard, strive with him. As to liking, you like your newspaper - and despise it.'

If you value a man's regard, strive with him. As to liking, you like your newspaper - and despise it.

The quote by Andre Maurois, "If you value a man's regard, strive with him. As to liking, you like your newspaper - and despise it," carries a profound message about the complexities of human relationships and the dynamics of admiration and liking. In a straightforward interpretation, Maurois suggests that if we genuinely value someone's respect and esteem, we must be prepared to engage in efforts with that person, to work and strive alongside them. On the other hand, he argues that liking, a more transient and fickle emotion, can be likened to the way we consume news – we may enjoy reading the newspaper, but often find ourselves despising the content within. However, by delving into a philosophical concept such as existentialism, we can uncover a deeper meaning and significance within these words.Existentialism, a philosophical approach rooted in the exploration of human existence and freedom, offers a lens through which we can analyze Maurois' quote. The notion of "striving" with someone implies a shared pursuit, a collaborative effort towards a common goal. In the context of existentialism, this can be seen as an assertion of our individual agency and responsibility in shaping not only our own lives but also the bonds we form with others. By engaging in this joint endeavor, we acknowledge the importance of the other person's regard and actively work towards earning it.Furthermore, existentialism examines the paradoxical nature of human relationships, which Maurois alludes to in his comparison of liking to a newspaper. According to this philosophical perspective, human connection is both desired and feared. As social beings, we long for companionship and seek the validation of others. However, this desire for connection also exposes us to vulnerability, disappointment, and the potential for hurt. Therefore, just as we may enjoy certain aspects of a newspaper, we may simultaneously despise its content or the impact it can have on us. Similarly, liking someone is not without its drawbacks, as it exposes us to the inherent risks and complexities of interpersonal relationships.Maurois' quote encourages us to reflect on the genuine value we place on other individuals' regard. It challenges us to consider if we are willing to put in the necessary effort and strive alongside them in the pursuit of mutual understanding and shared goals. In doing so, we not only deepen our connection with others but also cultivate a sense of personal growth and fulfillment.However, the quote also raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of liking and its inherent contradictions. Is liking merely a fleeting sentiment, subject to change without warning, much like the ever-changing news cycle? Or does it have the potential to evolve into something more profound and lasting?In contrast to regard, which implies a deeper level of respect and admiration, liking can sometimes be shallow and superficial. We may find ourselves drawn to certain superficial aspects of a person or attracted to their external qualities, only to realize that our initial impressions were misguided. This discrepancy between liking and genuine regard challenges us to critically evaluate our relationships. Are our connections based on the necessary foundations of shared values, compatibility, and mutual understanding? Or are they simply fleeting and transient, subject to the ebb and flow of our current preferences?Ultimately, Maurois' quote serves as a catalyst for introspection and reflection. It urges us to assess the meaningfulness of our relationships and the effort we invest in nurturing them. Through this lens, we are prompted to question whether our actions align with our professed values and if the bonds we form with others are rooted in genuine regard or fleeting liking. By striving alongside those whose regard we truly value, we not only strengthen our connections but also embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.