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About this quote

What does it mean?
Love begins with self‑deception and ends with deceiving others.
In plain terms
Love starts by lying to yourself and ends by lying to others.
What can you take from it?
Be honest with yourself and partners in love.

Where it applies

  • romantic relationships
  • self‑reflection

Putting it to work

  • practice honesty
  • self‑awareness

Questions to consider

  • Do I deceive myself in love?
  • How can I foster honesty with a partner?

Another view

Love can also inspire honesty and growth.

More from Oscar Wilde

  1. Women are a decorative sex. They never have anything to say, but they say it charmingly.

    Permalink to quote #78
  2. People are very fond of giving away what they need most themselves.

    Permalink to quote #80
  3. Men marry because they are tired; women, because they are curious: both are disappointed.

    Permalink to quote #77

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