Believe Quote by Helen DeWitt
“There is a strange taboo in our society against ending something merely because it is not pleasant-- life, love, a conversation, you name it, the etiquette is that you must begin in ignorance & persevere in the face of knowledge, & though I naturally believe that this is profoundly wrong it's not nice to go around constantly offending people.”
About This Quote
We often feel compelled to continue pursuits—relationships, projects, dialogues—simply because abandoning them feels socially improper, even when they become harmful or unfulfilling.
In simple terms: Social pressure to persist despite discomfort.
Key Takeaway
Perseverance can be misguided when driven by etiquette.
Themes
social norms
commitment
discomfort
ethical decision‑making
personal growth
Mood
reflective
critical
cautious
Type
philosophical
observational
cautionary
When to use this quote
- ending a toxic relationship
- leaving a dead‑end job
- discontinuing a draining conversation
- stopping a harmful habit
- withdrawing from a socially expected role
Key Concepts
taboo
ignorance
knowledge
perseverance
Practical Applications
- coaching on healthy boundaries
- guidance for ethical decision‑making
Questions to Reflect On
- When does persistence become harmful?
- How can we honor honesty over etiquette?
