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Good health Quote by Wilkie Collins

“A man with delicately-strung nerves often says and does things which often lead us to think more meanly of him than he deserves. It is his great misfortune constantly to present himself at his worst. On the other hand, a man provided with nerves vigorously constituted, is provided also with a…” quote by Wilkie Collins
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““A man with delicately-strung nerves often says and does things which often lead us to think more meanly of him than he deserves. It is his great misfortune constantly to present himself at his worst. On the other hand, a man provided with nerves vigorously constituted, is provided also with a constitutional health and a hardihood wich express themselves brightly in his manners, and which lead to a mistaken impression that his nature is what it appears to be on the surface. Having good health, he has good spirits. Having good spirits, he wins as an agreeable companion on the persons with whom he comes in contact - although he may be hiding all the while, under an outer covering which is physically wholesome, an inner nature which is morally diseased.””

Wilkie Collins

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins, 1859

People often judge others by their outward demeanor, missing deeper moral flaws, while those who appear robust may conceal inner corruption.

In simple terms: Appearances can be deceptive; inner character matters more than outward health.

Key Takeaway

Look beyond surface behavior to assess true character.

Themes

judgment appearance character deception morality

Mood

reflective cautious analytical

Type

aphilosophical observational critical.

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • team dynamics
  • leadership
  • conflict resolution
  • trust building

Key Concepts

social perception psychology ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you differentiate between outward confidence and inner integrity?
  • What signs indicate hidden moral failings?
A Different Perspective

Even a healthy exterior can hide serious moral issues, making judgments unreliable.

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