A novel kind of essay

There are a few of both sexes, doubtless, who hardly feel the
passion—who have never been “in love,” and who experience no strong
sexual appetite—but these are rare. Practically the passion is a matter
of universal experience; and speaking broadly and generally we may say
it is a matter on which it is quite desirable that every adult at some
time or other should have actual experience. There may be exceptions;
but, as said, the instinct lies so deep and is so universal, that for
the understanding of life—of one’s own life, of that of others, and of
human nature in general—as well as for the proper development of one’s
own capacities, such experience is as a rule needed.

And here in passing I would say that in the social life of the future
this need will surely be recognized, and that (while there will be no
stigma attaching to voluntary celibacy) the state of enforced celibacy
in which vast numbers of women live to-day will be looked upon as a
national wrong, almost as grievous as that of prostitution—of which
latter evil indeed it is in some degree the counterpart or necessary
accompaniment.