Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
Alexander PopeRead
Envy will merit, as its shade, pursue
Interpretation
What this quote means
Envy often follows merit and can overshadow it.
This quote by Alexander Pope suggests that feelings of envy are often directed towards those who are accomplished or have merit. Envy acts as a shadow, indicating that it is a reaction to the success or qualities of others and can ultimately obscure the merits of both the envier and the envied.
Themes
EnvyMeritShadowSuccessPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about workplace dynamics, one could use this quote to highlight how envy can influence team relationships.
More from Alexander Pope
All quotes →What dire offence from am'rous causes springs, What mighty contests rise from trivial things.
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Fair tresses man's imperial race ensnare; And beauty draws us with a single hair.
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An honest man's the noblest work of God.
Alexander PopeRead
One thought of thee puts all the pomp to flight;_x000D_ _x000D_ Priests, tapers, temples, swim before my sight.
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Who breaks a butterfly on a wheel?
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