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Health Quote by C.S. Lewis

“I had not noticed how the humblest, and at the same time most balanced and capacious, minds praised most, while the cranks, misfits, and malcontents praised least. The good critics found something to praise in many imperfect works; the bad ones continually narrowed the list of books we might be…” quote by C.S. Lewis
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““I had not noticed how the humblest, and at the same time most balanced and capacious, minds praised most, while the cranks, misfits, and malcontents praised least. The good critics found something to praise in many imperfect works; the bad ones continually narrowed the list of books we might be allowed to read. The healthy and unaffected man, even if luxuriously brought up and widely experienced in good cookery, could praise a very modest meal: the dyspeptic and the snob found fault with all. Except where intolerably adverse circumstances interfere, praise almost seems to be inner health made audible.””

C.S. Lewis

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Weight of Glory, 1942

Praise reflects inner health; balanced minds find good in many things, while narrow critics see only flaws.

In simple terms: Healthy people notice the good; narrow minds focus on faults.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate a balanced perspective.

Themes

balance criticism health perception

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • reading books
  • evaluating art
  • daily interactions
  • team feedback
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

inner health subjectivity aesthetic judgment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your mindset affect what you value?
  • Can you practice seeing the good in imperfect things?
A Different Perspective

Narrow critics may miss genuine merit, leading to missed opportunities.

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