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Beauty, like ice, our footing does betray; Who can tread…

“Beauty, like ice, our footing does betray; Who can tread sure on the smooth, slippery way: Pleased with the surface, we glide swiftly on, And see the dangers that we cannot shun.” quote by John Dryden
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“Beauty, like ice, our footing does betray; Who can tread sure on the smooth, slippery way: Pleased with the surface, we glide swiftly on, And see the dangers that we cannot shun.”

John Dryden

About This Quote

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

Beauty can be deceptive; apparent smoothness hides hidden dangers that can mislead the unwary.

In simple terms: Beauty can hide risk.

Key Takeaway

Look beyond appearances.

Themes

beauty deception risk

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

poetic reflective

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • investment decisions
  • travel planning
  • online dating

Key Concepts

metaphor human perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • What hidden risks do you overlook?
  • How can you test the stability of a seemingly smooth path?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on surface can cause blind spots.

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