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The theory seems to be that as long as a man is a failure…

“The theory seems to be that as long as a man is a failure he is one of God's children, but that as soon as he succeeds he is taken over by the Devil.” quote by H. L. Mencken
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“The theory seems to be that as long as a man is a failure he is one of God's children, but that as soon as he succeeds he is taken over by the Devil.”

H. L. Mencken

About This Quote

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

Failure is seen as divine, success as demonic; a cynical view of societal values.

In simple terms: Failure praised, success condemned.

Key Takeaway

Question why success is often vilified.

Themes

cynicism religion success failure

Mood

skeptical critical

Type

philosophical satirical

When to use this quote

  • career advancement
  • public praise
  • personal achievement
  • social status

Key Concepts

sociology theology morality

Questions to Reflect On

  • Does success truly corrupt?
  • How can we value failure constructively?
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