Skip to content

We pretend a lot of things aren't there. Or we pretend…

“We pretend a lot of things aren't there. Or we pretend that other things are more important. That's how we survive.” quote by John le Carré
Download Open image
““We pretend a lot of things aren't there. Or we pretend that other things are more important. That's how we survive.””

John le Carré

About This Quote

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

People ignore uncomfortable truths, focusing on distractions to survive emotionally.

In simple terms: We avoid pain by focusing elsewhere.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge hidden issues directly.

Themes

denial survival distraction

Mood

thoughtful somber analytical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • workplace conflicts
  • political crises
  • mental health

Key Concepts

Psychology existentialism politics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are you pretending isn exist?
  • How can you face it constructively?
A Different Perspective

Avoidance can prevent resolution.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by John le Carré

Explore all 409 John le Carré quotes

More Pretend quotes

Browse all 1,466 Pretend quotes