Quote by Edith Wharton
Beauty (was)a gift which, in the eyes of New York, justified every success, and excused a certain number of failings.
Summary
This quote suggests that beauty is highly valued and respected in the context of New York society. It implies that being physically attractive is seen as a powerful asset that can often overshadow any personal failures or shortcomings. In this context, beauty is considered a gift that can justify one's success and even serve as a forgiving factor, allowing for some allowances to be made. It reflects the superficial nature of society where appearances hold considerable weight and can influence how individuals are judged and treated.