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All the seven deadly sins are self destroying, morbid…

“All the seven deadly sins are self destroying, morbid appetites, but in their early stages at least, lust and gluttony, averice and sloth know some gratification, while anger and pride have power, even though that power eventually destroys itself. Envy is impotent, numbed with fear, never ceasing…” quote by Angus Wilson
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“All the seven deadly sins are self destroying, morbid appetites, but in their early stages at least, lust and gluttony, averice and sloth know some gratification, while anger and pride have power, even though that power eventually destroys itself. Envy is impotent, numbed with fear, never ceasing in its appetite, and it knows no gratification, but endless self torment. It has the ugliness of a trapped rat, which gnaws its own foot in an effort to escape.”

Angus Wilson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The seven deadly sins start with some pleasure but ultimately lead to self‑destruction, especially envy, which offers no gratification and causes endless torment.

In simple terms: Sins seem rewarding early but become self‑destructive, especially envy.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and curb early temptations before they become harmful.

Themes

morality self‑destruction human nature

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • ethical decision‑making
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

sin theory psychology addiction

Questions to Reflect On

  • What early pleasures might be masking long‑term harm?
  • How can you identify and stop self‑destructive patterns early?
A Different Perspective

Envy’s lack of reward can make it harder to notice its danger.

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