The common idea that success spoils people by making them vain, egotistic and self-complacent is erroneous; on the contrary it makes them, for the most part, humble, tolerant and kind.
W. Somerset MaughamRead
In civilized communities men's idiosyncrasies are mitigated by the necessity of conforming to certain rules of behavior. Culture is a mask that hides their faces.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that societal norms tame individual quirks, revealing a cultural facade people present. It highlights the tension between individuality and conformity.
W. Somerset Maugham's quote reflects on the nature of society and culture, stating that in organized communities, people's unique characteristics and behaviors are softened or toned down due to the influence of societal expectations and rules. The idea of culture acting as a 'mask' indicates that although individuals have their distinct idiosyncrasies, these are often concealed in favor of adhering to shared norms and practices, leading to a paradox where the true self is hidden behind cultural conformity.
Themes
SocietyCultureConformityIndividualityBehavior
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used during a discussion on the impact of culture on personal identity.
More from W. Somerset Maugham
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I don't think of the past. The only thing that matters is the everlasting present.
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The world is quickly bored by the recital of misfortune, and willing avoids the sight of distress.
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There in the mist, enormous, majestic, silent and terrible, stood the Great Wall of China. Solitarily, with the indifference of nature herself, it crept up the mountain side and slipped down to the depth of the valley.
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