Humbug Quote by Joseph Conrad
““Ossip, I think you are a humbug...you are not even a doctor. But you are funny. Your notion of a humanity universally putting out the tongue and taking the pill from pole to pole at the bidding of a few solemn jokers is worthy of the prophet…””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Nostromo, Joseph Conrad, 1904
The speaker mocks a character’s pretensions while acknowledging his humor and prophetic insight.
In simple terms: Mocking a pretentious but funny character.
Key Takeaway
Recognize humor even in criticism.
Themes
satire
humor
prophecy
Mood
wry
thoughtful
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- literary critique
- social commentary
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
pretension
human nature
authority
Questions to Reflect On
- How does humor soften criticism?
- When is satire effective?
A Different Perspective
The critique may overlook deeper sincerity.
![“[You write out of the] desire to seem clever, to be talked about, to be remembered after death, etc., etc., etc. It is humbug to pretend this is not a motive and a strong one.” quote by George Orwell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ec0/george-orwell-57_after-death_you-write-out-of-the-desire-to-seem-clev_278654.jpg)
