Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
Alexander PopeRead
Truths would you teach, or save a sinking land? All fear, none aid you, and few understand.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the difficulty of conveying truth in a world that often ignores or fails to comprehend it.
In this quote, Alexander Pope challenges the reader to consider the value of truth in a society that is unwilling to acknowledge it. He points out the paradox of teaching important truths versus the urgent need to address societal issues, emphasizing that fear often leads to inaction and misunderstanding. The quote suggests that even when the truth is clear, it is often met with resistance, leaving those who are aware of it feeling isolated and unsupported.
Themes
TruthSocietyUnderstandingFearActions
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about social justice, one might reference the quote to highlight the need for truth in activism.
More from Alexander Pope
All quotes βWhat dire offence from am'rous causes springs, What mighty contests rise from trivial things.
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Fair tresses man's imperial race ensnare; And beauty draws us with a single hair.
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An honest man's the noblest work of God.
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One thought of thee puts all the pomp to flight;_x000D_ _x000D_ Priests, tapers, temples, swim before my sight.
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Who breaks a butterfly on a wheel?
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