The wisest man is he who does not fancy that he is so at all.
Nicolas Boileau-DespreauxRead
But satire, ever moral, ever new, Delights the reader and instructs him, too. She, if good sense refine her sterling page, Oft shakes some rooted folly of the age.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Satire is a powerful tool that entertains while also imparting moral lessons, challenging societal norms.
In this quote, Boileau-Despreaux emphasizes the dual role of satire in society: it not only entertains readers but also educates them by addressing and critiquing foolishness and ignorance prevalent in the world. A well-crafted satirical piece can provoke thought and encourage introspection, making readers reconsider established beliefs and behaviors.
Themes
SatireMoralitySocietyEducationEntertainment
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of critical thinking, one might quote Boileau-Despreaux to highlight how satire can teach valuable lessons.
More from Nicolas Boileau-Despreaux
All quotes βWhatever we well understand we express clearly, and words flow with ease.
Nicolas Boileau-DespreauxRead
No one who cannot limit himself has ever been able to write.
Nicolas Boileau-DespreauxRead
Time flies and draws us with it. The moment in which I am speaking is already far from me.
Nicolas Boileau-DespreauxRead
Similar quotes
According to a new survey, 40 percent of adults in Mexico say they would move to the United States if they got a chance. The number would have been higher, but the other 60 percent already live here.
Conan O'BrienRead
I imagine hell like this: Italian punctuality, German humour and English wine.
Peter UstinovRead
There isn't a comedian in the world that hasn't bombed.
Bob NewhartRead
Kiss. n. A word invented by the poets as a rhyme for "bliss".
Ambrose BierceRead
Laugh at your problems; everybody else does.
Seneca The YoungerRead
Let me tell you what I look like: pale face, long hair, and a tiny start of a paunch. In addition, an awkward gait, and a cigar in the mouth and a pen in pocket or hand.
Albert EinsteinRead