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Matilda told such dreadful lies, It made one gasp and…

“Matilda told such dreadful lies, It made one gasp and stretch one's eyes Her aunt, who, from her earliest youth, Had kept a strict regard for truth, Attempted to believe Matilda The effort very nearly killed her.” quote by Hilaire Belloc
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“Matilda told such dreadful lies, It made one gasp and stretch one's eyes Her aunt, who, from her earliest youth, Had kept a strict regard for truth, Attempted to believe Matilda The effort very nearly killed her.”

Hilaire Belloc

About This Quote

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

A child's exaggerated tales shock a truth‑obsessed aunt, highlighting the tension between imagination and rigid honesty.

In simple terms: Imagination clashes with strict truthfulness.

Key Takeaway

Balance honesty with empathy.

Themes

truth imagination family dynamics communication trust

Mood

reflective empathetic thoughtful

Type

aphilosophical narrative

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • teaching honesty
  • creative writing
  • conflict resolution
  • mental health

Key Concepts

literature psychology social norms

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you handle falsehoods that harm?
  • When is a lie harmless?
A Different Perspective

Excessive honesty can harm relationships; imagination can be misused.

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