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The quick pain of truth can pass away, but the slow…

“The quick pain of truth can pass away, but the slow, eating agony of a lie is never lost.” quote by John Steinbeck
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““The quick pain of truth can pass away, but the slow, eating agony of a lie is never lost.””

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.

Truth’s pain is brief, but lies cause lingering, slow suffering that never fully disappears.

In simple terms: Truth hurts briefly; lies linger.

Key Takeaway

Choose honesty to avoid lasting harm.

Themes

ethics truth deception

Mood

serious thoughtful

Type

advisory reflective

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • political discourse
  • business negotiations

Key Concepts

integrity consequences psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What long‑term effects do lies have?
  • How can you mitigate truth’s pain?
A Different Perspective

Sometimes harsh truth can cause immediate damage.

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