There are many sham diamonds in this life which pass for real, and vice versa.
William Makepeace ThackerayRead
The moral world has no particular objection to vice, but an insuperable repugnance to hearing vice called by its proper name.
Interpretation
What this quote means
People often accept vice in society but react strongly against openly acknowledging it.
In this quote, Thackeray points out the hypocrisy of human nature regarding morality and vice. While society may tolerate immoral behavior, there is a strong aversion to directly labeling such behavior as immoral, revealing the discomfort people have with the truth about their own or others' flaws.
Themes
MoralityViceHypocrisyTruthSociety
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about ethical behavior in business, this quote could highlight the reluctance to confront issues.
More from William Makepeace Thackeray
All quotes βThere's a great power of imagination about these little creatures, and a creative fancy and belief that is very curious to watch . . . I am sure that horrid matter-of-fact child-rearers . . . do away with the child's most beautiful privilege. I am determined that Anny shall have a very extensive and instructive store of learning in Tom Thumbs, Jack-the-Giant-Killers, etc.
William Makepeace ThackerayRead
When you look at me, when you think of me, I am in paradise.
William Makepeace ThackerayRead
And in those varieties of pain of which we spoke anon, what a part of confidante has that poor teapot played ever since the kindly plant was introduced among us! What myriads of women have cried over it, to be sure! What sickbeds it has smoked by! What fevered lips have received refreshment from out of it! Nature meant very gently by women when she made that teaplant; and with a little thought what a series of pictures and groups the fancy may conjure up and assemble round the teapot and cup!
William Makepeace ThackerayRead
The play is done; the curtain drops,_x000D_ _x000D_ Slow falling to the prompter's bell_x000D_ _x000D_ A moment yet the actor stops_x000D_ _x000D_ And looks around to say farewell.
William Makepeace ThackerayRead
it is the ordinary lot of people to have no friends if they themselves care for nobody
William Makepeace ThackerayRead
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