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[You write out of the] desire to seem clever, to be talked…

“[You write out of the] desire to seem clever, to be talked about, to be remembered after death, etc., etc., etc. It is humbug to pretend this is not a motive and a strong one.” quote by George Orwell
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“[You write out of the] desire to seem clever, to be talked about, to be remembered after death, etc., etc., etc. It is humbug to pretend this is not a motive and a strong one.”

George Orwell

About This Quote

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

People often act driven by a desire for legacy and recognition, even when they deny it, leading to self‑deception and vanity.

In simple terms: We hide our need for fame behind cleverness.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge true motives.

Themes

vanity legacy self‑deception

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • career ambition
  • social media
  • political rhetoric
  • personal branding

Key Concepts

ego recognition authenticity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What motives do you conceal?
  • How does seeking fame affect your choices?
A Different Perspective

Denial can blind self‑improvement.

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