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Children Quote by Quentin Crisp

“Many [hooligans] discover to their shame that they have scruples; they have roots and, greatest disadvantage of all, they have hope. The fathers superior of the order do not try to influence their children in Satan; they merely shake their heads in sorrow. They know that the apostate must work out…” quote by Quentin Crisp
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“Many [hooligans] discover to their shame that they have scruples; they have roots and, greatest disadvantage of all, they have hope. The fathers superior of the order do not try to influence their children in Satan; they merely shake their heads in sorrow. They know that the apostate must work out his own damnation.”

Quentin Crisp

About This Quote

Source Book: The Naked Civil Servant, 1968

People often realize that moral conscience and hope can be a burden, leading to shame and isolation.

In simple terms: Conscience and hope can feel like a curse.

Key Takeaway

Accept personal flaws, seek growth.

Themes

shame conscience hope isolation

Mood

reflective melancholic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • mental health
  • spiritual crisis
  • family dynamics

Key Concepts

existentialism human frailty self‑awareness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does hope affect your sense of responsibility?
  • Can shame be transformed into motivation?
A Different Perspective

Hope can also inspire positive change, not just despair.

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