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About this quote

What does it mean?
When alone with a mysterious person, one wonders if they reveal their true self or hide behind a mask.
In plain terms
You question whether someone shows their real face.
What can you take from it?
Be aware that people may conceal their true nature.

Where it applies

  • first meetings
  • intimate conversations

Putting it to work

  • listen for inconsistencies
  • give space for honesty

Questions to consider

  • How do you recognize authenticity?
  • When is it okay to keep a mask?

Another view

Some masks are protective, not deceptive.

More from Oscar Wilde

  1. It is better to have a permanent income than to be fascinating.

    Permalink to quote #25
  2. Life imitates art far more than art imitates Life.

    Permalink to quote #27
  3. People who count their chickens before they are hatched act very wisely because chickens run about so absurdly that it's impossible to count them accurately.

    Permalink to quote #24

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