Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
Alexander PopeRead
Vice is a monster of so frightful mien As to be hated needs but to be seen; Yet seen too oft, familiar with her face, We first endure, then pity, then embrace.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote explores the idea that what is initially seen as negative or monstrous can become familiar and even accepted over time.
Alexander Pope's quote reflects on the nature of vice and how our perception of it changes with familiarity. Initially, vice appears fearsome and repulsive, evoking hatred simply by being recognized. However, as one encounters vice repeatedly, it becomes less threatening, resulting in a progression from endurance, to pity, and ultimately to acceptance or embrace. This suggests that humans often adjust their moral responses to vice through exposure and understanding.
Themes
ViceFamiliarityAcceptancePerceptionMorality
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion on how society adapts to crime, this quote might illustrate the normalization of vice.
More from Alexander Pope
All quotes →What 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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