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About this quote

What does it mean?
Truth-tellers are inevitably exposed over time.
In plain terms
If you tell the truth, you'll eventually be found out.
What can you take from it?
Honesty may bring later consequences.

Where it applies

  • in a courtroom
  • during a scandal

Putting it to work

  • document evidence
  • prepare for fallout

Questions to consider

  • Is secrecy ever justified?
  • When does truth become dangerous?

Another view

Sometimes truth can be protected or hidden.

More from Oscar Wilde

  1. Religions die when they are proved to be true. Science is the record of dead religions.

    Permalink to quote #129
  2. Only the shallow know themselves.

    Permalink to quote #131
  3. Ambition is the last refuge of the failure.

    Permalink to quote #128

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