Meaning
This proverb means that in extreme situations—like love and war—people often break rules or use unusual methods to get what they want, and it’s considered acceptable. It suggests that when emotions are high or survival is at stake, right and wrong become blurry. It doesn’t mean anything goes in life, but that in matters of the heart or battle, people are often judged less harshly for their choices.
Understanding the Idea of the Proverb
The proverb tells us that both love and war bring out strong emotions—passion, desperation, fear, longing—and in such moments, people may act in surprising or bold ways. Lies may be told, rules may be bent, and plans may turn clever or cunning. While it doesn’t promote dishonesty, it acknowledges the reality that in pursuit of love or in times of conflict, people will do whatever it takes to win. It reflects the human side of decisions made under pressure.
A relatable Story – “The Scholarship and the Secret”
Ananya and Isha were best friends in their final year of college. Both brilliant, both hardworking—and both had their eyes on a single, life-changing overseas scholarship.
The application process was tough. Recommendation letters, essays, interviews. They helped each other prepare, just like always. But deep inside, both knew only one of them would make it.
One night, Ananya discovered something. She accidentally opened Isha’s draft essay on the shared laptop and found a mistake in the financial section that could weaken her friend’s application.
She paused. She could tell Isha. It would be the fair thing to do.
But then she thought of her dreams—of studying abroad, of breaking free from the financial struggles at home. She closed the file quietly and submitted her own perfect application.
Weeks later, Ananya was awarded the scholarship.
Isha hugged her with tears of joy, never knowing how close she’d been.
Ananya felt a mix of pride and guilt. Her mind whispered, “That wasn’t fair.” But her heart replied,
“All is fair in love and war—and dreams that feel like both.”
Years later, she would wonder what kind of person that choice had made her. But in that moment, she had made peace with it.
Moral:
When emotions or survival are involved, people may do things they normally wouldn’t. In love, war, and life-changing moments—right and wrong can blur.