It is well known to all great men, that by conferring an obligation they do not always procure a friend, but are certain of creating many enemies.
Henry FieldingRead
He grew weary of this condescension, and began to treat the opinions of his wife with that haughtiuess and insolence, which none but those who deserve some contempt themselves can bestow, and those only who deserve no contempt can bear.
Interpretation
The quote reflects the dangers of condescension and how it can erode respect in relationships.
In this quote, Fielding illustrates the detrimental effects of condescension in marital relationships, highlighting how one partner's arrogance towards the other's opinions can lead to a cycle of disrespect and contempt. By treating his wife's thoughts with disdain, the man not only displays his own flaws but also fosters an environment where mutual respect cannot thrive, indicating that true respect requires humility from both parties.
In practice
In a discussion about marriage dynamics, one might use this quote to highlight the importance of mutual respect.
It is well known to all great men, that by conferring an obligation they do not always procure a friend, but are certain of creating many enemies.
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Now in reality, the world has paid too great a compliment to critics, and has imagined them to be men of much greater profundity than they really are.
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None love the messenger who brings bad news.
I've got to stop getting obsessed with human beings and fall in love with a chair. Chairs have everything human beings have to offer, and less, which is obviously what I need. Less emotional feedback, less warmth, less approval, less patience and less response. The less the merrier. Chairs it is. I must furnish my heart with feelings for furniture.
It’s really hard to hate someone for being different when you’re too busy laughing together.
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