The generality of virtuous women are like hidden treasures, they are safe only because nobody has sought after them.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
The qualities we have, make us so ridiculous as those which we affect.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Our inherent qualities may seem absurd when we try to alter them to fit societal expectations.
This quote by Francois De La Rochefoucauld reflects on the idea that the traits we possess can appear foolish, much like the traits we deliberately choose to adopt. It emphasizes the absurdity in both embracing one's natural characteristics and in trying to conform to external standards, suggesting a deeper philosophical exploration of identity and self-perception.
Themes
IdentityAbsurditySelf-PerceptionAuthenticity
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech on self-acceptance, one could use this quote to illustrate the importance of embracing one's true qualities.
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.
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Some counterfeits reproduce so very well the truth that it would be a flaw of judgment not to be deceived by them.
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Conceit causes more conversation than wit.
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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.
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