Careful Quote by Sinclair Lewis
“Damn the great executives, the men of measured merriment, damn the men with careful smiles, damn the men that run the shops, oh, damn their measured merriment.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Main Street by Sinclair Lewis, 1920
Critique of superficial politeness and hollow ambition among the elite.
In simple terms: Surface smiles hide shallow motives.
Look beyond appearances for true character.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- corporate culture
- political discourse
- social gatherings
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you see measured merriment in your environment?
- What values replace hollow smiles?
Politeness can mask selfish intent, limiting genuine connection.