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I hate the man who builds his name On ruins of another's…

“I hate the man who builds his name On ruins of another's fame. Thus prudes, by characters o'erthrown, Imagine that they raise their own. Thus Scribblers, covetous of praise, Think slander can transplant the bays.” quote by John Gay
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“I hate the man who builds his name On ruins of another's fame. Thus prudes, by characters o'erthrown, Imagine that they raise their own. Thus Scribblers, covetous of praise, Think slander can transplant the bays.”

John Gay

About This Quote

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

A critic condemns those who achieve fame by destroying others' reputations, and those who seek praise through slander.

In simple terms: Condemning fame built on others' ruin.

Key Takeaway

Avoid ruining others to gain fame.

Themes

ethics reputation integrity

Mood

critical skeptical

Type

philosophical warning

When to use this quote

  • literary criticism
  • career advancement
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

Moral philosophy social criticism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you build reputation without harming others?
  • What are the costs of slander?
A Different Perspective

Success built on others' may be unsustainable.

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