Music has charms to sooth a savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.
William CongreveRead
She likes herself, yet others hates, For that which in herself she prizes; And while she laughs at them, forgets She is the thing that she despises.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on self-acceptance and the paradox of being judged by others for traits one values.
This quote by William Congreve explores the complex relationships between self-esteem and external judgment. It highlights the irony that a person may embrace their own identity and qualities, yet face disdain from others who do not share that appreciation. Ultimately, it suggests that the same traits which one holds dear can also be the source of criticism, leading to a disconnect between self-acceptance and societal perception.
Themes
Self-AcceptanceJudgmentIdentityParadoxIndividuality
In practice
Example use cases
During a talk on self-acceptance, one could use this quote to illustrate how inner confidence often clashes with public perception.
More from William Congreve
All quotes βWomen are like tricks by sleight of hand, Which, to admire, we should not understand
William CongreveRead
But say what you will, 'tis better to be left than never to have been loved. To pass our youth in dull indifference, to refuse the sweets of life because they once must leave us, is as preposterous as to wish to have been born old, because we one day must be old.
William CongreveRead
Grief walks upon the heels of pleasure; married in haste, we repent at leisure.
William CongreveRead
There is in true beauty, as in courage, something which narrow souls cannot dare to admire.
William CongreveRead
Uncertainty and expectation are the joys of life. Security is an insipid thing.
William CongreveRead
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