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Good gracious, she could have remained faithful to him in…

“Good gracious, she could have remained faithful to him in spirit while she was being unfaithful to him in the flesh. That is a feat of legerdemain that women find it easy to accomplish.' What a odious cynic you are.' If it's cynical to look truth in the face and exercise common sense in the…” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
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““Good gracious, she could have remained faithful to him in spirit while she was being unfaithful to him in the flesh. That is a feat of legerdemain that women find it easy to accomplish.' What a odious cynic you are.' If it's cynical to look truth in the face and exercise common sense in the affairs of life, then certainly I'm a cynic and odious if you like.' [Virtue]””

W. Somerset Maugham

About This Quote

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

The narrator calls out a woman’s double standards, labeling her a cynical, deceitful person, while embracing his own cynicism as honest.

In simple terms: She is hypocritical, and he admits his own cynicism.

Key Takeaway

Recognize hypocrisy and own your truth.

Themes

hypocrisy cynicism morality

Mood

skeptical provocative

Type

critical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • ethical dilemmas
  • personal integrity

Key Concepts

double standards self-awareness

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is cynicism always negative?
  • Can honesty be harsh?
A Different Perspective

The harsh tone may alienate and overlook nuance.

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