Regarding Lawrence Durrel's theory, here's what I say about loving a woman.

Love her AND turn her into art. She is a work of art. No question about it. Love her totally, because she is a walking example of God's mysterious and glorious perfection...BUT...don't lose your own sovereignty in the process! If you can manage that, you're on solid ground. (I always found it tricky.)

I say these things mostly just to remind myself. ;-)

"the more love you give out the more is given back to you."

You are so right, Lynne. The thing with love is, you gotta love everybody, not just that one "special" person. If you do, plenty of love will come back. (Note that loving everybody does not necessarily mean you will like everybody...in terms of their outward personality.)