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About this quote

What does it mean?
A reputation may grow stronger simply because people stop reading the person's work, allowing myths to replace reality.
In plain terms
Fame can grow when people stop reading the actual work.
What can you take from it?
Legacy often builds on silence rather than substance.

Where it applies

  • career analysis
  • historical legacy
  • public image

Putting it to work

  • maintaining relevance
  • documenting work

Questions to consider

  • Do you judge people by their work or their fame?
  • How does silence shape reputation?

Another view

Some reputations endure because of genuine merit, not just neglect.

More from Voltaire

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  3. Ne ressemblons-nous pas presque tous a ce vieux general de quatre-vingt-dix ans, qui, ayant rencontre de jeunes officiers qui faisaient un peu de desordre avec…

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