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He realized that he was manacled hand and foot with…

“He realized that he was manacled hand and foot with fetters that were only more intolerable because they consisted of nothing more substantial than the dread of causing pain.” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
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““He realized that he was manacled hand and foot with fetters that were only more intolerable because they consisted of nothing more substantial than the dread of causing pain.””

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 fear of hurting others can become a self‑imposed restraint that feels more oppressive than any physical chain.

In simple terms: Fear of causing pain can imprison us.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and question irrational fears.

Themes

psychology freedom self‑control

Mood

anxious reflective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • leadership decisions
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

existentialism self‑fulfilling prophecy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What fears are based on imagined consequences?
  • How can you test whether a fear is realistic?
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