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A certain person may have, as you say, a wonderful…

“A certain person may have, as you say, a wonderful presence; I do not know. What I do know is that he has a perfectly delightful absence.” quote by Idries Shah
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“A certain person may have, as you say, a wonderful presence; I do not know. What I do know is that he has a perfectly delightful absence.”

Idries Shah

About This Quote

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

The speaker praises someone’s presence but values their absence more, implying the person’s non‑existence is more pleasant than their company.

In simple terms: Absence feels better than presence.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate space over unwanted company.

Themes

relationships presence absence preference

Mood

contemplative melancholic

Type

observational reflective

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • social gatherings
  • conflict avoidance

Key Concepts

psychology social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you prefer silence over noise?
  • How does absence affect your mood?
A Different Perspective

Absence may be temporary, not permanent.

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