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About this quote

What does it mean?
Close associates can harbor resentment or betrayal despite outward affection.
In plain terms
Some people closest to you may want you harm.
What can you take from it?
Be cautious even with those you trust most.

Where it applies

  • navigating close relationships
  • dealing with workplace politics

Putting it to work

  • maintain healthy boundaries
  • observe actions over words

Questions to consider

  • Who in your circle might secretly oppose you?
  • How do you verify loyalty?

Another view

Not all friends are enemies; this view assumes widespread duplicity.

More from Jean Cocteau

  1. He who is affected by an insult is infected by it.

    Permalink to quote #67
  2. Fight any instinct to be humorless, for humorlessness is the worst of all absurdities.

    Permalink to quote #69
  3. Compromise yourself. Obscure your own trail.

    Permalink to quote #66

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