Skip to content

Men Quote by Charles Bukowski

“I have two rules. One is, never trust a man who smokes a pipe. The other is, never trust a man with shiny shoes.” quote by Charles Bukowski
Download Open image
“I have two rules. One is, never trust a man who smokes a pipe. The other is, never trust a man with shiny shoes.”

Charles Bukowski

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Rules of the Game”, Charles Bukowski, 1978

Skepticism toward appearances: pipe‑smokers and shiny‑shoe wearers are portrayed as untrustworthy.

In simple terms: Appearances can be deceiving.

Key Takeaway

Question superficial judgments.

Themes

trust appearance skepticism social cues character

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • job interviews
  • social gatherings
  • online dating

Key Concepts

Social perception bias first impressions

Questions to Reflect On

  • What deeper qualities should you assess?
  • How do you avoid snap judgments?
A Different Perspective

Not all superficial traits indicate character.

3.0 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Charles Bukowski

Explore all 1,492 Charles Bukowski quotes

More Men quotes

Browse all 84,236 Men quotes