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Every man Quote by Francis Quarles

“Every man's vanity ought to be his greatest shame; and every man's folly ought to be his greatest secret.” quote by Francis Quarles
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“Every man's vanity ought to be his greatest shame; and every man's folly ought to be his greatest secret.”

Francis Quarles

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Vanity of Man”, 1628

Vanity and folly are presented as personal failures; they should be recognized as sources of shame and secrecy.

In simple terms: Pride and foolishness are shameful secrets.

Key Takeaway

Guard against pride.

Themes

vanity folly shame secrecy

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

poetic ethical

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • ethical teaching
  • self‑improvement

Key Concepts

moral philosophy self‑awareness

Questions to Reflect On

  • What hidden follies do we hide?
  • How can we transform shame into growth?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on shame may discourage honest self‑assessment.

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