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About this quote

What does it mean?
Simplicity can be misleading because it hides complexity or true intent, leading people astray.
In plain terms
Simple things often trick us because they are not as straightforward as they seem.
What can you take from it?
Trust verified depth over surface simplicity.

Where it applies

  • business deals
  • relationships
  • problem solving

Putting it to work

  • look beyond surface simplicity
  • verify before trusting

Questions to consider

  • Do I assume simple means true?
  • What complex issues look simple?

Another view

Sometimes simplicity is genuine and not deceptive at all.

More from Henry Adams

  1. We combat obstacles in order to get repose, and, when got, the repose is insupportable.

    Permalink to quote #29
  2. No one means all he says, and yet very few say all they mean, for words are slippery and thought is viscous.

    Permalink to quote #31
  3. Modern politics is, at bottom, a struggle not of men but of forces.

    Permalink to quote #28

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