Companionship Quote by Leo Tolstoy
““Speransky, either because he appreciated Prince Andrey's abilities or because he thought it as well to secure his adherence, showed off his calm, impartial sagacity before Prince Andrey, and flattered him with that delicate flattery that goes hand in hand with conceit, and consists in a tacit assumption that one's companion and oneself are the only people capable of understanding all the folly of the rest of the world and the sagacity and profundity of their own ideas.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: War and Peace, 1869
A character displays calm intelligence and subtle flattery, implying only a few can truly grasp the world’s folly and their own insight.
In simple terms: Shows calm intellect and flattery suggest exclusive understanding.
Key Takeaway
Recognize humility over exclusive insight.
Themes
humility
intelligence
flattery
exclusivity
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- political negotiation
- leadership meetings
- personal relationships
- team building
Key Concepts
psychology
social dynamics
ego
perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How does flattery affect trust?
- When is humility more effective?
A Different Perspective
May alienate others by implying superiority.
