symbolism of Cupid

About the graphic

In February thoughts turn to love in a special way. Personally, I think love is meant to be shared year-round, but there is just something about this month that causes us to focus our thoughts on LOVE.

Years ago I created a series of graphics for my Wednesday blog quotes in February. This has been the most popular.

About the quote

The full quote reads:

Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind
And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.
Nor hath love’s mind of any judgement taste;
Wings and no eyes figure unheedy haste.
And therefore is love said to be a child
Because in choice he is so oft beguiled.

Shakespeare’s words  are said to explain Cupid:

• winged because lovers are flighty and likely to change their minds
• boyish because love is irrational
• carrying an  arrow and torch “because love wounds and inflames the heart.”
• blind or blindfolded because, while the sight of the beloved can spur love, it’s also arbitrary

I never paid much attention to Cupid until I read Shakespeare’s words. Now I see how Cupid  symbolizes of love.