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When a man's eyes are sore his friends do not let him…

“When a man's eyes are sore his friends do not let him finger them, however much he wishes to, nor do they themselves touch the inflammation: But a man sunk in grief suffers every chance comer to stir and augment his affliction like a running sore; and by reason of the fingering and consequent…” quote by Plutarch
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““When a man's eyes are sore his friends do not let him finger them, however much he wishes to, nor do they themselves touch the inflammation: But a man sunk in grief suffers every chance comer to stir and augment his affliction like a running sore; and by reason of the fingering and consequent irritation it hardens into a serious and intractable evil.””

Plutarch

About This Quote

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

Grief intensifies pain when others intervene, turning minor wounds into severe suffering.

In simple terms: Avoid meddling with grieving friends.

Key Takeaway

Respect boundaries in grief.

Themes

grief empathy boundaries

Mood

compassionate thoughtful

Type

psychological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • counseling
  • friendship
  • family support

Key Concepts

psychology social interaction

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should you intervene in someone's grief?
  • How can you support without causing harm?
A Different Perspective

Well‑meaning help can worsen emotional pain.

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