Flattery Quote by John Fowles
““There are three types of intelligent persons: the first so intelligent that being called very intelligent must seem natural and obvious; the second sufficiently intelligent to see that he is being flattered, not described; the third so little intelligent that he will believe anything. I knew I belonged to the second kind.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The French Lieutenant’s Woman, 1969
Intelligence varies: natural ease, self‑awareness of flattery, and gullibility; the speaker identifies with the self‑aware middle.
In simple terms: Three kinds of intelligence exist.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate self‑awareness.
Themes
intelligence
self‑knowledge
humility
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- education
- leadership
- personal growth
Key Concepts
philosophy
literary analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- Which type do you relate to?
- How can you avoid gullibility?
A Different Perspective
People may misjudge intelligence.
