QuoteProject
O, what a tangled web we weave when first we practise to deceive!
Walter Scott
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Deception leads to complexity and complications in life.

This quote by Walter Scott highlights the idea that when people begin to deceive, they create intricate problems for themselves. The metaphor of a 'tangled web' suggests that lies and dishonesty can trap individuals, making situations far more complex than they need to be, ultimately leading to negative consequences.

Themes

DeceptionHonestyConsequencesComplexityTruth

In practice

Example use cases

This quote is perfect to use during a discussion about the importance of honesty in relationships.

More from Walter Scott

Blessed be his name, who hath appointed the quiet night to follow the busy day, and the calm sleep to refresh the wearied limbs and to compose the troubled spirit.
Walter ScottRead
Is death the last sleep? No, it is the last and final awakening.
Walter ScottRead
There is a vulgar incredulity, which in historical matters, as well as in those of religion, finds it easier to doubt than to examine.
Walter ScottRead
Love rules the court, the camp, the grove, And men below, and saints above: For love is heaven, and heaven is love.
Walter ScottRead
Where shall the lover rest,_x000D_ _x000D_ Whom the fates sever_x000D_ _x000D_ From his true maiden's breast,_x000D_ _x000D_ Parted for ever?_x000D_ _x000D_ Where, through groves deep and high,_x000D_ _x000D_ Sounds the far billow,_x000D_ _x000D_ Where early violets die,_x000D_ _x000D_ Under the willow.
Walter ScottRead
On his bold visage middle age Had slightly press'd its signet sage, Yet had not quench'd the open truth And fiery vehemence of youth: Forward and frolic glee was there, The will to do, the soul to dare.
Walter ScottRead

Similar quotes

Which is why I am writing this book. To think. To understand. It just happens to be the way I'm made. I have to write things down to feel I fully comprehend them.
Haruki MurakamiRead
When a thought appears such as "Do the dishes" and you don't do them, notice how an internal war breaks out... The stress and weariness you feel are really mental combat fatigue.
Byron KatieRead
Don't stumble over something behind you.
Seneca The YoungerRead
God has put something noble and good into every heart His hand created.
Mark TwainRead
If a man is proud of his wealth, he should not be praised until it is known how he employs it.
SocratesRead
I don't like work... but I like what is in work - the chance to find yourself. Your own reality - for yourself, not for others - which no other man can ever know.
Joseph ConradRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.

Quote by Walter Scott | QuoteProject