People are usually made Dames for virtues I do not possess.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- People often praise others for qualities the speaker lacks, highlighting their own perceived deficiencies.
- In plain terms
- Others get praised for good traits I do not have.
- What can you take from it?
- Recognize how comparison can highlight your own perceived shortcomings.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What virtues do you wish others praised you for?
- How does comparison affect your self-image?
Another view
This view assumes the speaker lacks those virtues entirely, which may not be true.
More from Edith Sitwell
I am patient with stupidity but not with those who are proud of it.
Permalink to quote #34 I wouldn't dream of following a fashion... how could one be a different person every three months?
Permalink to quote #36 There are people, also, who cannot believe that beauty and gaiety are a part of goodness. When we think of cruelty, we must try to remember the stupidity, the …
Permalink to quote #33
Related quotes
La vertu s'avilit a se justifier.
VoltaireVoltaire quote #1 Humility is a virtue all preach, none practice; and yet everybody is content to hear.
John SeldenJohn Selden quote #3 Can't I another's face commend, And to her virtues be a friend, But instantly your forehead lowers, As if her merit lessen'd yours?
Edward MooreEdward Moore quote #3