I suppose society is wonderfully delightful. To be in it is merely a bore. But to be out of it simply a tragedy.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Society is delightful but boring; being outside it is a tragedy.
- In plain terms
- Society is nice yet dull; exclusion is tragic.
- What can you take from it?
- Balance engagement with society and personal authenticity.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is society truly delightful?
- How can one avoid tragedy outside it?
Another view
It frames participation as inevitable, ignoring dissent.
More from Oscar Wilde
Lord Illingworth: I am always astonishing myself. It is the only thing that makes life worth living.
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