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A successful lie cannot be brought into this world and…

“A successful lie cannot be brought into this world and capriciously abandoned; like any committed relationship,it must be maintained, and with far more devotion than the truth,which carries on being carelessly true without any help.By contrast, my lie needed as much as I needed it, and so demanded…” quote by Lionel Shriver
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““A successful lie cannot be brought into this world and capriciously abandoned; like any committed relationship,it must be maintained, and with far more devotion than the truth,which carries on being carelessly true without any help.By contrast, my lie needed as much as I needed it, and so demanded the constancy of wedlock : Till death do us part.””

Lionel Shriver

About This Quote

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

A lie, once created, demands ongoing effort and devotion, often more than truth, to stay alive and meaningful.

In simple terms: Lies need constant upkeep, sometimes more than truth.

Key Takeaway

Maintain your narratives with care.

Themes

deception commitment truth relationships

Mood

reflective serious thoughtful

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • political rhetoric
  • media narratives
  • personal branding

Key Concepts

ethical philosophy psychology social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you prioritize truth over convenience?
  • How does maintaining a lie affect your identity?
A Different Perspective

Lies can erode trust and cause harm if unchecked.

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