If all hearts were open and all desires known - as they would be if people showed their souls - how many gapings, sighings, clenched fists, knotted brows, broad grins, and red eyes should we see in the market-place!
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- If everyone showed their true souls and desires, the marketplace would be full of visible anger, anxiety, and hidden emotions.
- In plain terms
- If people showed their true feelings, public spaces would be full of distress and conflict.
- What can you take from it?
- People hide strong emotions to keep peace.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Would society be better if everyone was honest?
- What emotions do you hide in public?
Another view
It assumes most people are hiding negative emotions rather than just private ones.
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