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About this quote

What does it mean?
Laughing at someone may reveal their wit occasionally.
In plain terms
Mocking people can uncover witty remarks.
What can you take from it?
Criticism can sometimes find humor.

Where it applies

  • analyzing social dynamics
  • discussing comedy

Putting it to work

  • look beyond mockery
  • find hidden value

Questions to consider

  • Is mockery ever useful?
  • Where does wit hide?

Another view

Mockery can also be cruel and unproductive.

More from Jane Austen

  1. Happiness in marriage is entirely a matter of chance.

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  2. One does not love a place the less for having suffered in it, unless it has been all suffering, nothing but suffering.

    Permalink to quote #26
  3. To be fond of dancing was a certain step towards falling in love.

    Permalink to quote #23

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