Aunt Quote by Hilaire Belloc
“Matilda told such dreadful lies, It made one gasp and stretch one's eyes Her aunt, who, from her earliest youth, Had kept a strict regard for truth, Attempted to believe Matilda The effort very nearly killed her.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: "Matilda" by Hilaire Belloc, 1912
A child's exaggerated tales shock a truth‑obsessed aunt, highlighting the tension between imagination and rigid honesty.
In simple terms: Imagination clashes with strict truthfulness.
Key Takeaway
Balance honesty with empathy.
Themes
truth
imagination
family dynamics
communication
trust
Mood
reflective
empathetic
thoughtful
Type
aphilosophical
narrative
When to use this quote
- parenting
- teaching honesty
- creative writing
- conflict resolution
- mental health
Key Concepts
literature
psychology
social norms
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you handle falsehoods that harm?
- When is a lie harmless?
A Different Perspective
Excessive honesty can harm relationships; imagination can be misused.
![“For no one, in our long decline,So dusty, spiteful and divided,Had quite such pleasant friends as mine,Or loved them half as much as I did. [stanza 3]The library was most inviting:The books upon the crowded shelvesWere mainly of our private writing:We kept a school and taught ourselves. [stanza…” quote by Hilaire Belloc](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/913/hilaire-belloc-2294_book_for-no-one-in-our-long-decline-so-dusty_140002.jpg)
