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
I see people, as they approach me, trying to make up their minds whether they'll 'say something about it' or not. I hate if they do, and if they don't.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses discomfort with people's hesitation to address a topic directly, highlighting the complexities of social interactions.
C. S. Lewis reflects on the social dynamics that occur when people are faced with a sensitive or difficult topic. He expresses his frustration with the indecisiveness of individuals who ponder whether to acknowledge an issue or remain silent. This hesitancy can lead to discomfort for both the speaker and the listener, suggesting that open communication is preferable to ambiguity.
Themes
CommunicationHonestySocial DynamicsRelationshipsFrustration
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about sensitive topics, one might reference this quote to encourage open dialogue.
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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