It is foolish to wish for beauty. Sensible people never…
““It is foolish to wish for beauty. Sensible people never either desire it for themselves or care about it in others. If the mind be but well cultivated, and the heart well disposed, no one ever cares for the exterior. So said the teachers of our childhood; and so say we to the children of the present day. All very judicious and proper, no doubt; but are such assertions supported by actual experience?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
True beauty is irrelevant when the mind and heart are cultivated; external appearance matters little.
In simple terms: Inner virtue outweighs outward looks.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate inner character.
Themes
beauty
inner virtue
cultivation
Mood
contemplative
critical
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- parenting
- education
- personal development
- social interactions
Key Concepts
selflessness
philosophy
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How does inner growth affect outward perception?
- Can we truly ignore beauty?
A Different Perspective
Neglecting appearance can lead to social disadvantages.