I am not one of those weak-spirited, sappy Americans who want to be liked by all the people around them.I don't care if people hate my guts; I assume most of them do. The important question is whether they are in a position to do anything about it. My affections, being concentrated over a few people, are not spread all over Hell in a vile attempt to placate sulky, worthless shits.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The author rejects the need for universal approval and focuses on deep connections with a few trusted people.
- In plain terms
- I dont care if people dislike me as long as they cant hurt me.
- What can you take from it?
- Prioritize genuine relationships over universal likability.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who truly matters to you?
- Why do you seek approval?
Another view
It may encourage isolation or dismiss valid social feedback.
More from William S. Burroughs
Heroin is a vitamin...don't let anyone tell you different heroin IS a vitamin...there's nothing in the game plan...that says that all vitamins have to be good …
Permalink to quote #24 I think all novelists particularly are engaged in the creation of Tulpas. That is exactly what they are doing. Ahh... they are trying to create characters that…
Permalink to quote #26 General procedure: Read and learn all you can about problem. Look at problem from a point of zero preconception. Devise variations and alternative solutions. C…
Permalink to quote #23
Related quotes
An average man is too concerned with liking people or with being liked himself. A warrior likes, that's all. He likes whatever or whomever he wants, for the he…
Carlos CastanedaCarlos Castaneda quote #21 Fashion exists for women with no taste, etiquette for people with no breeding.
Queen of Romania MarieQueen of Romania Marie quote #1 I don't like being too looked up at or too looked down on. I prefer meeting in the middle to being worshipped or spat out.
Joni MitchellJoni Mitchell quote #1