The worst of my actions or conditions seem not so ugly unto me as I find it both ugly and base not to dare to avouch for them.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Montaigne argues that while our flaws are ugly, the lack of courage to own them is worse.
- In plain terms
- It is worse to hide your flaws than to admit them honestly.
- What can you take from it?
- Own your actions with courage instead of hiding them.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What flaw are you afraid to admit?
- Is hiding shame better than owning it?
Another view
Admitting faults can lead to external judgment or punishment.
More from Michel de Montaigne
The world is but a perpetual see-saw.
Permalink to quote #125 There are some defeats more triumphant than victories.
Permalink to quote #127 The world is all a carcass and vanity, The shadow of a shadow, a play And in one word, just nothing.
Permalink to quote #124
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