the greek word eros denotes 'want', 'lack', 'desire for that which is missing'. the lover wants what he does not have. it is by definition, impossible for him to have what he wants if, as soon as it is had, it is no longer wanting.

and

all our desires are contradictory, like the desire for food. i want the person i love to love me. if he is however, totally devoted to me he does not exist any longer and i cease to love him. and as long as he is not totally devoted to me he does not love me enough. hunger and repletion.

-simone weil

both from anne carson | eros the bittersweet