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But then if you lied to a man about his talent just…

“But then if you lied to a man about his talent just because he was sitting across from you, that was the most unforgivable lie of them all, because that was telling him to go on, to continue which was the worst way for a man without real talent to waste his life, finally. But many people did just…” quote by Charles Bukowski
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“But then if you lied to a man about his talent just because he was sitting across from you, that was the most unforgivable lie of them all, because that was telling him to go on, to continue which was the worst way for a man without real talent to waste his life, finally. But many people did just that, friends and relatives mostly.”

Charles Bukowski

About This Quote

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

A lie about someone's talent, told to encourage them, can trap them in a futile pursuit, wasting their life, especially when the person lacks real ability.

In simple terms: Lying about talent can waste a person's life.

Key Takeaway

Avoid false encouragement that misleads.

Themes

ethics relationships self-awareness talent misdirection

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • Friendship advice
  • career counseling
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

Authenticity personal responsibility psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is encouragement harmful?
  • How can we truthfully support others?
A Different Perspective

The quote may overgeneralize talent and motivation.

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