Skip to content

I know that sometimes a lie is used in kindness. I don't…

“I know that sometimes a lie is used in kindness. I don't believe it ever works kindly. The quick pain of the truth can pass away, but the slow, eating agonyof a lie is neverlost. That's a running sore” quote by John Steinbeck
Download Open image
““I know that sometimes a lie is used in kindness. I don't believe it ever works kindly. The quick pain of the truth can pass away, but the slow, eating agonyof a lie is neverlost. That's a running sore””

John Steinbeck

About This Quote

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

Lying, even with good intentions, causes lingering harm, while truth may hurt briefly but heals faster.

In simple terms: Lies hurt longer than truth.

Key Takeaway

Choose honesty even when painful.

Themes

honesty integrity consequences

Mood

reflective serious

Type

moral philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • parenting
  • leadership
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

ethical dilemmas psychology of deception

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance honesty with compassion?
  • When is a lie justified?
A Different Perspective

Truth can damage trust if delivered harshly.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by John Steinbeck

Explore all 1,589 John Steinbeck quotes

More Kindness quotes

Browse all 6,600 Kindness quotes