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There are persons of that general philanthropy and easy…

“There are persons of that general philanthropy and easy tempers, which the world in contempt generally calls good-natured, who seem to be sent into the world with the same design with which men put little fish into a pike pond, in order only to be devoured by that voracious water-hero.” quote by Henry Fielding
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“There are persons of that general philanthropy and easy tempers, which the world in contempt generally calls good-natured, who seem to be sent into the world with the same design with which men put little fish into a pike pond, in order only to be devoured by that voracious water-hero.”

Henry Fielding

About This Quote

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

Some people are overly generous and gentle, making them easy targets for exploitation, much like small fish placed in a predator's pond.

In simple terms: Overly kind people can be exploited.

Key Takeaway

Beware of being overly naive.

Themes

generosity vulnerability exploitation

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • business negotiations
  • personal relationships
  • charitable acts
  • social media interactions

Key Concepts

human nature social dynamics trust

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does generosity become self‑sabotage?
  • How can you protect yourself while staying kind?
A Different Perspective

Kindness can be balanced with discernment.

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