Angel Quote by Mark Twain
“...Man is a marvelous curiosity. When he is at his very very best he is a sort of low grade nickel-plated angel; at his worst he is unspeakable, unimaginable; and first and last and all the time he is a sarcasm. Yet he blandly and in all sincerity calls himself the 'noblest work of God.'”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain, 1876
Human nature contains both noble and base extremes, often self‑contradictory, yet we claim divine purpose.
In simple terms: People are both good and bad, yet think they’re the best.
Key Takeaway
Recognize humility and self‑awareness.
Themes
human nature
contradiction
pride
humility
Mood
reflective
ironic
Type
philosophical
literary
motivational
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- leadership
- ethical decision‑making
Key Concepts
dualism
self‑deception
existential irony
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance your strengths and flaws?
- What does calling yourself “the noblest work of God” reveal?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on self‑importance can blind us to growth.
