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Wounded vanity knows when it is mortally hurt; and limps…

“Wounded vanity knows when it is mortally hurt; and limps off the field, piteous, all disguises thrown away. But pride carries its banner to the last; and fast as it is driven from one field unfurls it in another, never admitting that there is a shade less honor in the second field than in the…” quote by Helen Hunt Jackson
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“Wounded vanity knows when it is mortally hurt; and limps off the field, piteous, all disguises thrown away. But pride carries its banner to the last; and fast as it is driven from one field unfurls it in another, never admitting that there is a shade less honor in the second field than in the first, or in the third than in the second.”

Helen Hunt Jackson

About This Quote

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

Pride persists despite injury, moving from one arena to another, never acknowledging its diminished honor.

In simple terms: Pride keeps fighting even when hurt.

Key Takeaway

Recognize when pride blinds you.

Themes

pride vanity honor

Mood

reflective somber

Type

philosophical cautionary

When to use this quote

  • Career setbacks
  • social competition
  • personal failure

Key Concepts

Human ego self‑deception

Questions to Reflect On

  • When has pride cost you?
  • Can you admit a loss gracefully?
A Different Perspective

Pride may prevent learning from loss.

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