The generality of virtuous women are like hidden treasures, they are safe only because nobody has sought after them.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
In order to succeed in the world people do their upmost to appear successful.
Interpretation
What this quote means
People often put forth a strong effort to create an image of success, regardless of their actual circumstances.
This quote by Francois De La Rochefoucauld highlights the tendency of individuals to prioritize appearances over reality, particularly in the context of success. It suggests that many people invest significant energy into showcasing themselves as successful to gain social validation or acceptance, even if their true achievements do not reflect that image. This behavior can be indicative of societal pressures and the value placed on external perceptions.
Themes
SuccessAppearanceValidationEffortSociety
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a motivational speech to highlight the importance of authenticity over mere appearances.
More from Francois De La Rochefoucauld
All quotes βOld men delight in giving good advice as a consolation for the fact that they can no longer set bad examples.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
Some counterfeits reproduce so very well the truth that it would be a flaw of judgment not to be deceived by them.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
Conceit causes more conversation than wit.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
The defects and faults of the mind are like wounds in the body; after all imaginable care has been taken to heal them up, still there will be a scar left behind, and they are in continual danger of breaking the skin and bursting out again.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
To understand matters rightly we should understand their details; and as that knowledge is almost infinite, our knowledge is always superficial and imperfect.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
Similar quotes
I never thought a career as a musician was possible.
Billie EilishRead
At the beginning, you are 20 and you can just imagine... don't get me wrong, but having money. Then you realise that it's not only about you and what you are doing but that you have to give back.
Thierry HenryRead
Without new ideas success can become stale
Anthony BourdainRead
Success and failure are equally disastrous.
Tennessee WilliamsRead
It is, after all, the dab of grit that seeps into an oyster's shell that makes the pearl, not pearl-making seminars with other oysters.
Stephen KingRead
Only he who attempts the absurd is capable of achieving the impossible.
Miguel De UnamunoRead