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
Pity was meant to be a spur that drives joy to help misery. But it can be used the wrong way round. It can be used for a kind of blackmailing. Those who choose misery can hold joy up to ransom, by pity.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Pity can be a motivating force for compassion and joy, but it can also be misused to manipulate others.
In this quote, C. S. Lewis explores the dual nature of pity as both a positive and negative force. While it is intended to inspire kindness and support for those in misery, it can also be counterproductive, leading to manipulation where individuals may use their suffering to control or coerce others into feeling guilty or obligated to provide help, thereby turning a potentially uplifting emotion into a tool for emotional blackmail.
Themes
PityJoyMiseryManipulationCompassion
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about emotional intelligence, this quote can illustrate the complexity of feelings like pity and joy.
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
C. S. LewisRead
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