A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
The distinction between pretending you are better than you are and beginning to be better in reality is finer than moral sleuth hounds conceive.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The difference between feigning improvement and genuinely improving is subtle yet significant.
C. S. Lewis highlights the thin line that separates those who superficially act as if they are better than they truly are and those who actively strive to become better. This quote invites reflection on personal integrity and the authenticity of self-improvement, urging individuals to recognize the importance of genuine effort over mere appearances.
Themes
ImprovementAuthenticitySelf-AwarenessGrowthIntegrity
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about personal growth and honesty.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes βI enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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