Truth may perhaps come to the price of a pearl, that…
“Truth may perhaps come to the price of a pearl, that showeth best by day; but it will not rise to the price of a diamond or carbuncle, that showeth best in varied lights. A mixture of a lie doth ever add pleasure. Doth any man doubt that, if there were taken out of men's minds vain opinions, flattering hopes, false valuations, imaginations as one would, and the like, but it would leave the minds of a number of men poor shrunken things, full of melancholy and indisposition, and unpleasing to themselves?”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Truth is valuable but never reaches the brilliance of absolute truth; lies can be comforting but ultimately diminish the mind.
In simple terms: Truth is valuable but not perfect; lies feel good but weaken.
Key Takeaway
Seek truth, accept its limits, and avoid comforting falsehoods.
Themes
truth
knowledge
illusion
philosophy
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- ethical decision making
- critical thinking
- spiritual contemplation
Key Concepts
epistemology
human nature
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What truths are you avoiding?
- How do comforting lies affect your growth?
A Different Perspective
Truth may be painful and destabilizing, leading to melancholy.