Nothing is more durable than the dynasty of Doubt; for he reigns in the hearts of all his people, but gives satisfaction to none of them, and yet he is the only despot who can never die, while any of his subjects live.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
Pure truth, like pure gold, has been found unfit for circulation because men have discovered that it is far more convenient to adulterate the truth than to refine themselves.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Truth is often distorted for convenience, making personal refinement more challenging.
In this quote, Charles Caleb Colton suggests that individuals frequently alter the truth to suit their needs or preferences, rather than engaging in the more demanding process of self-improvement. The comparison of pure truth to pure gold highlights that while truth is valuable, it is often rejected or compromised in favor of easier, less authentic alternatives that people find more manageable to accept in their lives.
Themes
TruthSelf-ImprovementAuthenticityConvienceWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about honesty in personal growth.
More from Charles Caleb Colton
All quotes βIt is astonishing how much more people are interested in lengthening life than improving it.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
The benevolent have the advantage of the envious, even in this present life; for the envious man is tormented not only by all the ill that befalls himself, but by all the good that happens to another; whereas the benevolent man is the better prepared to bear his own calamities unruffled, from the complacency and serenity he has secured from contemplating the prosperity of all around him.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
Happiness, that grand mistress of the ceremonies in the dance of life, impels us through all its mazes and meanderings, but leads none of us by the same route.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
Our minds are as different as our faces. We are all traveling to one destination: happiness, but few are going by the same road.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
Moderation is the inseparable companion of wisdom, but with it genius has not even a nodding acquaintance.
Charles Caleb ColtonRead
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