The ear disapproves but tolerates certain musical pieces; transfer them into the domain of our nose, and we will be forced to flee.
Jean CocteauRead
Wealth is an inborn attitude of mind, like poverty. The pauper who has made his pile may flaunt his spoils, but cannot wear them plausibly.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Wealth and poverty are states of mind that influence our perception of value and success.
In this quote, Jean Cocteau suggests that both wealth and poverty are more about one's attitude and mindset than mere financial status. A person who is wealthy by mindset, regardless of their material possessions, carries a sense of self-worth that shines through, while someone who has gained riches without the corresponding mindset may find it difficult to genuinely embody the values associated with wealth.
Themes
WealthPovertyMindsetAttitudeValue
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about mindset and success, you can use this quote to illustrate the importance of one's attitude towards wealth.
More from Jean Cocteau
All quotes βOne must be a living man and a posthumous artist.
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All good music resembles something. Good music stirs by its mysterious resemblance to the objects and feelings which motivated it.
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Nothing ever gets anywhere. The earth keeps turning round and gets nowhere. The moment is the only thing that counts.
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Listen carefully to first criticisms made of your work. Note just what it is about your work that critics don't like - then cultivate it. That's the only part of your work that's individual and worth keeping.
Jean CocteauRead
Watch yourself all your life in a mirror and you'll see Death at work like bees in a glass hive.
Jean CocteauRead
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Wherever an altar is found, there civilization exists.
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