But what is Hope? Nothing but the paint on the face of Existence; the least touch of truth rubs it off, and then we see what a hollow-cheeked harlot we have got hold of.
Lord ByronRead
Tis strange,-but true; for truth is always strange; Stranger than fiction: if it could be told, How much would novels gain by the exchange! How differently the world would men behold!
Interpretation
Truth can be more astonishing than fiction, and if it were fully understood, it would change people's perceptions.
This quote by Lord Byron highlights the idea that reality often surpasses the incredible scenarios portrayed in works of fiction. It implies that the authenticity of lived experiences and events can be so extraordinary and unexpected that they would shift people's views and understanding of the world, possibly even rendering fictional stories pale in comparison.
In practice
During a book club discussion about how fiction sometimes fails to capture real-life absurdities.
But what is Hope? Nothing but the paint on the face of Existence; the least touch of truth rubs it off, and then we see what a hollow-cheeked harlot we have got hold of.
It is the lava of the imagination whose eruption prevents an earthquake.
For what were all these country patriots born? To hunt, and vote, and raise the price of corn?
Absence - that common cure of love.
Her great merit is finding out mine; there is nothing so amiable as discernment.
But words are things, and a small drop of ink, Falling like dew, upon a thought, produces That which makes thousands, perhaps millions, think.
We came out here to find the American Dream, and now that we're right in the vortex you want to quit ... You must realize that we've found the main nerve." I know," he said. "That's what gives me the Fear.
To give one's life is a right only when one gives it unselfishly.
Natural death is independent of all reason and is really an irrational death, in which the pitiable substance of the shell determines how long the kernel is to exist or not; in which, accordingly, the stunted, diseased and dull witted jailer is lord, and indicates the moment at which his distinguished prisoner shall die.
He had possessed the arrogance of a tall member of a short race, with no obligation save to be tall.
News is what someone wants suppressed. Everything else is advertising.
The United States has the power to destroy the world, but not the power to save it alone
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