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Modern life Quote by Oscar Wilde

“Oh I can't explain. When I like people immensely I never tell their names to any one. It is like surrendering a part of them. I have grown to love secrecy. It seems to be the one thing that can make modern life mysterious or marvellous to us. The commonest thing is delightful if one only hides it.” quote by Oscar Wilde
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““Oh I can't explain. When I like people immensely I never tell their names to any one. It is like surrendering a part of them. I have grown to love secrecy. It seems to be the one thing that can make modern life mysterious or marvellous to us. The commonest thing is delightful if one only hides it.””

Oscar Wilde

About This Quote

Source Play: The Importance of Being Earnest, 1895

Wilde suggests that keeping personal admiration secret preserves its mystery and intimacy, preventing the loss of something precious when shared openly.

In simple terms: Keeping love secret keeps it special.

Key Takeaway

Guard cherished feelings to protect their depth.

Themes

privacy intimacy trust secrecy

Mood

reflective melancholic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • romantic relationships
  • friendships
  • personal boundaries
  • social media interactions

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology literature

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you hide your admiration?
  • How does secrecy affect intimacy?
A Different Perspective

Secrecy can also breed suspicion and isolation.

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