Skip to content

Betrayal Quote by Oscar Wilde

“Yet each man kills the thing he loves By each let this be heard Some do it with a bitter look Some with a flattering word The coward does it with a kiss The brave man with a sword” quote by Oscar Wilde
Download Open image
“Yet each man kills the thing he loves By each let this be heard Some do it with a bitter look Some with a flattering word The coward does it with a kiss The brave man with a sword”

Oscar Wilde

About This Quote

Source Poem: The Ballad of Reading Gaol, 1898 (excerpt)

People often destroy what they love, using various methods ranging from subtle to violent, reflecting inner conflict and courage.

In simple terms: People kill what they love in different ways, showing fear or bravery.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and confront destructive patterns.

Themes

love destruction conflict

Mood

melancholic introspective

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • self‑reflection
  • conflict resolution
  • emotional honesty

Key Concepts

psychology morality courage

Questions to Reflect On

  • What love have you harmed unintentionally?
  • How does bravery change the outcome?
A Different Perspective

The view may romanticize self‑destruction, ignoring healthier coping.

4.1 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Oscar Wilde

Explore all 3,343 Oscar Wilde quotes

More Betrayal quotes

Browse all 2,050 Betrayal quotes