Skip to content
quotesby

About this quote

What does it mean?
Appearance can mislead, while words have the power to reveal truth.
In plain terms
Looks can deceive; words can tell the truth.
What can you take from it?
Look beyond the surface to understand.

Where it applies

  • first impressions
  • media analysis

Putting it to work

  • ask clarifying questions
  • value substance over style

Questions to consider

  • How do you balance appearance and words?
  • When can appearance be reliable?

Another view

Sometimes appearance does convey important information.

More from Oscar Wilde

  1. Over the piano was printed a notice: Please do not shoot the pianist. He is doing his best.

    Permalink to quote #4

  2. And down the long and silent street, The dawn, with silver-sandalled feet, Crept like a frightened girl.

    Permalink to quote #6

  3. Lo! with a little rod I did but touch the honey of romance - And must I lose a soul's inheritance?** Helas!, l. 12-14 (1881)

    Permalink to quote #3

Related quotes

  1. He had bought a large map representing the sea, Without the least vestige of land: And the crew were much pleased when they found it to be A map they could all…

    Lewis CarrollLewis Carroll quote #7

  2. Everything (he kept saying) is something it isn't. And everybody is always somewhere else.

    E. B. (Elwyn Brooks) WhiteE. B. (Elwyn Brooks) White quote #7

  3. It may be said with a degree of assurance that not everything that meets the eye is as it appears.

    Rod SerlingRod Serling quote #16