Break Quote by Edwin Percy Whipple
“We all originally came from the woods! it is hard to eradicate from any of us the old taste for the tattoo and the war-paint; and the moment that money gets into our pockets, it somehow or another breaks out in ornaments on our person, without always giving refinement to our manners.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Cultural critique, 1850
Human nature retains primal instincts; wealth often leads to superficial adornment rather than refined behavior.
In simple terms: People keep wild habits, and money adds flashy ornaments.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate inner refinement over external show.
Themes
nature
wealth
refinement
Mood
critical
observational
Type
cultural
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal development
- financial decisions
- cultural observation
- fashion choices
- behavioral psychology
Key Concepts
primal instincts
materialism
social etiquette
Questions to Reflect On
- How does wealth affect your values?
- What habits reflect true refinement?
A Different Perspective
Material focus can distract from deeper personal growth.
