Skip to content

Secret Quote by Kurt Vonnegut

“Keeping big secrets, particularly secrets about things of one's own doing, is a tough proposition for even very bright people.” quote by Kurt Vonnegut
Download Open image
““Keeping big secrets, particularly secrets about things of one's own doing, is a tough proposition for even very bright people.””

Kurt Vonnegut

About This Quote

Source Novel: Cat's Cradle, 1963

Keeping secrets about one's own actions is difficult even for intelligent people because it creates cognitive dissonance and moral strain.

In simple terms: Secrets about one's deeds are hard to keep.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge and address your actions openly.

Themes

ethics psychology integrity

Mood

reflective serious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • workplace
  • legal matters

Key Concepts

cognitive dissonance self‑deception

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do secrets affect your sense of self?
  • What risks arise from hiding your own mistakes?
3.1 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Kurt Vonnegut

Explore all 2,092 Kurt Vonnegut quotes

More Secret quotes

Browse all 8,958 Secret quotes