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Cecily. This is no time for wearing the shallow mask of…

“Cecily. This is no time for wearing the shallow mask of manners. When I see a spade I call it a spade. Gwendolen. [Satirically.] I am glad to say that I have never seen a spade. It is obvious that our social spheres have been widely different.” quote by Oscar Wilde
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“Cecily. This is no time for wearing the shallow mask of manners. When I see a spade I call it a spade. Gwendolen. [Satirically.] I am glad to say that I have never seen a spade. It is obvious that our social spheres have been widely different.”

Oscar Wilde

About This Quote

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

Social pretenses are shallow; call things by their true names.

In simple terms: Be honest, avoid superficial manners.

Key Takeaway

Speak truthfully, reject false etiquette.

Themes

honesty social critique authenticity

Mood

witty provocative

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • public discourse
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

Mask of manners truth versus appearance

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is honesty more important than politeness?
  • How to balance truth with social harmony?
A Different Perspective

Truth may offend or cause conflict.

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