Admiration Quote by Baltasar Gracian
“The hossanas of the multitude can never bring satisfaction to the discerning. Yet there exist those chamaleons of popularity who find their joy, not in the sweet breath of Apollo, but in the smell of the crowd. And not in mind: Do not be taken in by what are miracles to the populace, for the ignorant do not rise above marveling. Thus the stupidity of a crowd is lost in admiration, even as the brain of an individual uncovers the trick.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Art of Worldly Wisdom, 1647
Crowd popularity offers shallow satisfaction; discerning individuals find joy beyond mass approval.
In simple terms: True joy isn’t from crowd praise.
Key Takeaway
Seek personal fulfillment over popular validation.
Themes
wisdom
individuality
society
Mood
cautious
insightful
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- personal branding
- critical media consumption
- self‑reflection
Key Concepts
psychology
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- What does authentic joy look like for you?
- How can you resist crowd pressure?
A Different Perspective
Popularity can mask mediocrity.
