They had both noticed that a life of dissipation sometimes gave to a face the look of gaunt suffering spirituality that a life of asceticism was supposed to give and quite often did not.

Summary

This quote suggests that a life of indulgence or excess can sometimes impart the appearance of profound spirituality, which is typically attributed to a life of abstinence or strict self-discipline. It implies that individuals who indulge in worldly pleasures may display a facade of deep inner suffering and spirituality, which may not necessarily reflect their true character or personal growth. Conversely, those who lead ascetic lives may not always exhibit the same level of spiritual depth or enlightenment that is expected.

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