That much, at least, Laertes understands all too well. He tries to imagine confiding his deepest fears and insecurities to Ophelia--let alone to his father--and his mind rebels at it. Ophelia has burdens enough, and he knows full well that his father would have a great store of (often contradictory) advice that would bring him no ease. The mere act of needing something from them is horrifying. Repulsive.

"I see why such people are needful," he says, after a long moment. "Self-reflection can lead one down well-trodden paths, but seldom blaze new ones."