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All that glisters is not gold; Often have you heard that told: Many a man his life hath sold But my outside to behold: Gilded tombs do worms enfold.
William Shakespeare
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Appearances can be deceiving; true value lies beneath the surface.

This quote from Shakespeare reminds us that not everything that shines or looks attractive is valuable. Often, superficial appearances can mislead us, and we must look deeper to understand the true worth of people and things, as even the most beautiful exteriors can hide decay and emptiness underneath.

Themes

AppearancesDeceptionValueWorthSurface

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about honesty in relationships, one could use this quote to highlight the importance of looking beyond physical attributes.

More from William Shakespeare

As honour, love, obedience, troops of friends, / I must not look to have; but, in their stead, / Curses, not loud but deep, mouth-honour, breath, / Which the poor heart would fain deny, and dare not" (5.3.25-28).
William ShakespeareRead
Love bears it out even to the edge of doom.
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Good company, good wine, good welcome, can make good people.
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Absence doth sharpen love, presence strengthens it; the one brings fuel, the other blows it till it burns clear.
William ShakespeareRead
Lord, Lord, how this world is given to lying!
William ShakespeareRead
Give it an understanding, but no tongue.
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