Boast Quote by William Cowper
“And, of all lies (be that one poet's boast) / The lie that flatters I abhor the most.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: The Task, 1785
The speaker despises flattering lies more than any other falsehood.
In simple terms: Flattering lies are the worst.
Key Takeaway
Avoid flattering lies.
Themes
truth
flattery
integrity
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
aphilosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- political rhetoric
- media consumption
Key Concepts
Moral philosophy
self‑respect
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you ever accept flattering lies?
- How can you confront them?
A Different Perspective
Flattery can sometimes be socially necessary.
