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About this quote

What does it mean?
Social groups often hide conflict to present a polished and pleasant image.
In plain terms
Society smooths over rough spots to look perfect.
What can you take from it?
Be aware that social harmony often masks underlying issues.

Where it applies

  • social gatherings
  • community building

Putting it to work

  • look beyond surface level

Questions to consider

  • What roughness is hidden in your community?

Another view

Some social norms are necessary to maintain order.

More from Washington Irving

  1. Resolved - never to do anything which I should be afraid to do, if it were my last of life.

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  2. Some minds seem almost to create themselves, springing up under every disadvantage and working their solitary but irresistible way through a thousand obstacles.

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  3. One of the greatest and simplest tools for learning more and growing is doing more.

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