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He man Quote by W. H. Auden

“To the man-in-the-street, who, I'm sorry to say, is a keen observer of life. The word Intellectual suggests straight away. A man who's untrue to his wife.” quote by W. H. Auden
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“To the man-in-the-street, who, I'm sorry to say, is a keen observer of life. The word Intellectual suggests straight away. A man who's untrue to his wife.”

W. H. Auden

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Street Observer”, 1939

The speaker critiques how “Intellectual” is used to label those who are unfaithful, suggesting hypocrisy in societal labels.

In simple terms: Labels like “Intellectual” can hide personal flaws.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions behind labels.

Themes

social critique identity hypocrisy language relationships

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • social media commentary
  • academic discourse
  • political rhetoric

Key Concepts

Labeling moral judgment public perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “Intellectual” truly mean to you?
  • How do labels affect personal integrity?
A Different Perspective

Labels can be both protective and oppressive.

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