But people didn't have to pay as much attention to the awful truth. As the living legend of the cruel tyrant in the city and the gentle holy man in the jungle grew, so, too, did the happiness of the people grow. They were all employed full time as actors in a play they understood, that any human being anywhere could understand and applaud.

Summary

This quote explores the idea that people sometimes choose not to acknowledge disturbing or unpleasant truths because it is more comforting to believe in myths and legends. The reference to a tyrant in the city and a holy man in the jungle suggests contrasting narratives that captivate people's attention and paint a simpler picture of the world. By participating in this shared performance, people experience a collective happiness and a sense of belonging, finding solace in a story that is universally relatable and captivating.

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