Dreams Quote by Anaïs Nin
![“What I corrupted was what is called the truth in favour of a more marvelous world. I could always improve on the facts. [...] in self-defense, I accuse the writers of fairy-tales. Not hunger, not cruelty, not my parents, but these tales which promised that sleeping in the snow never caused…” quote by Anaïs Nin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/04f/anais-nin-288_dreams_what-i-corrupted-was-what-is-called-the_695981.jpg)
““What I corrupted was what is called the truth in favour of a more marvelous world. I could always improve on the facts. [...] in self-defense, I accuse the writers of fairy-tales. Not hunger, not cruelty, not my parents, but these tales which promised that sleeping in the snow never caused pneumonia, that bread never turned stale, that trees blossomed out of season, that dragons could be killed with courage, that intense wishing would be followed immediately by fulfillment of the wish. Intrepid wishing, said the fairytales, was more effective than labor. The smoke issuing from Aladdin's lamp was my first smokescreen, and the lies learned from fairytales were my first perjuries. Let us say I had perverted tendencies: I believed everything I read.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “On Fairy Tales” (excerpt), 1930s
The passage critiques how idealistic narratives replace harsh realities, leading to unrealistic expectations and avoidance of effort.
In simple terms: Fairy tales promise magic instead of hard work, distorting reality.
Key Takeaway
Question narratives that promise easy solutions without effort.
Themes
illusion
effort
truth
storytelling
critical thinking
Mood
critical
inquisitive
analytical
Type
literary
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- evaluating media messages
- educational curricula
- personal goal setting
Key Concepts
mythmaking
psychology
social conditioning
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you rely on stories to shape your worldview?
- How can you balance imagination with realistic expectations?
A Different Perspective
Such narratives can inspire hope despite their inaccuracy.
