I fooled myself. I had to. Everybody has to. If the good…
““I fooled myself. I had to. Everybody has to. If the good had been twice as good and the bad only half as bad, I still ought to have see it, all through as I did in the beginning, because I am, as you say, sensitive. But I didn't want to see it, because I would have then had to think about the consequences of seeing it, what followed from seeing it, what I must do to be decent. I wanted my home and family, my job, my career, a place in the community.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Sensitivity makes us confront uncomfortable truths, but avoidance protects us from painful consequences.
In simple terms: Sensitivity forces truth; avoidance shields.
Key Takeaway
Balance awareness with self‑care.
Themes
sensitivity
truth
avoidance
Mood
introspective
cautious
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- career decisions
- community involvement
- moral choices
Key Concepts
psychological conflict
ethical dilemma
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you avoided a painful truth?
- What costs arise from confronting it?
A Different Perspective
Avoidance may prevent growth and responsibility.