[Dona Maria] saw that the people of this world moved about…
![“[Dona Maria] saw that the people of this world moved about in an armor of egotism, drunk with self-gazing, athirst for compliments, hearing little of what was said to them, unmoved by the accidents that befell their closest friends, in dread of all appeals that might interrupt their long communion…” quote by Thornton Wilder](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/955/thornton-wilder-1495_accidents_dona-maria-saw-that-the-people-of-this-w_2369283.jpg)
“[Dona Maria] saw that the people of this world moved about in an armor of egotism, drunk with self-gazing, athirst for compliments, hearing little of what was said to them, unmoved by the accidents that befell their closest friends, in dread of all appeals that might interrupt their long communion with their own desires.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage condemns humanity’s self‑absorption and desire for praise, ignoring others’ suffering.
In simple terms: People are selfish and ignore others' pain.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate empathy over self‑interest.
Themes
selfishness
ego
indifference
Mood
reflective
concerned
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- community work
- media consumption
- education programs
Key Concepts
human nature
social critique
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives your need for validation?
- How can you become more attuned to others?
A Different Perspective
Self‑focus can blind us to real-world tragedies.