I never wish to offend, but I am so foolishly shy, that I…
“I never wish to offend, but I am so foolishly shy, that I often seem negligent, when I am only kept back by my natural awkwardness ... Shyness is only the effect of a sense of inferiority in some way or other. If I could persuade myself that my manners were perfectly easy and graceful, I should not be shy.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Shyness stems from feeling inferior; believing in one’s own ease can overcome it.
In simple terms: Shyness is from to feeling inferior; confidence helps.
Practice confidence to ease shyness.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- first dates
- networking events
- team meetings
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What small actions can boost self‑confidence?
- How does self‑image shape social behavior?
Confidence alone may not change deep‑seated insecurity.