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However imperfect our conception of virtue, still let us…

“However imperfect our conception of virtue, still let us cling to it; for a moment’s forgetfulness exposes us to all the malignant forces from without. The simplest lie to myself, buried though it may be in the silence of my soul, may yet be as dangerous to my inner liberty as an act of treachery…” quote by Maurice Maeterlinck
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““However imperfect our conception of virtue, still let us cling to it; for a moment’s forgetfulness exposes us to all the malignant forces from without. The simplest lie to myself, buried though it may be in the silence of my soul, may yet be as dangerous to my inner liberty as an act of treachery on the marketplace. Widfom and Destiny””

Maurice Maeterlinck

About This Quote

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

Even flawed ideas of virtue are vital; forgetting them invites harmful external influences and self‑deception that can erode personal freedom.

In simple terms: Cling to imperfect virtue to protect inner liberty.

Key Takeaway

Guard your principles, even if imperfect.

Themes

virtue self‑control inner freedom

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • ethical decision‑making
  • self‑assessment

Key Concepts

philosophy ethical integrity psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you recognize when you’re deceiving yourself?
  • What practices keep your virtues alive?
A Different Perspective

Self‑deception can be subtle and hard to detect.

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