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About this quote

What does it mean?
Great light creates strong shadows, implying that prominence brings criticism or hidden flaws.
In plain terms
Much light creates big shadows.
What can you take from it?
Expect scrutiny when you stand out.

Where it applies

  • celebrity
  • leadership

Putting it to work

  • public relations
  • risk management

Questions to consider

  • How can one balance visibility with privacy?

Another view

It may oversimplify the relationship between fame and criticism.

More from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

  1. One lives but once in the world.

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  2. If you inquire what the people are like here, I must answer, 'The same as everywhere!'

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  3. Getting along with women, Knocking around with men, Having more credit than money, Thus one goes through the world.

    Permalink to quote #4

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