Quote by Samuel Johnson
It is dangerous for mortal beauty, or terrestrial virtue, to be examined by too strong a light. The torch of Truth shows much that we cannot, and all that we would not, see.
Summary
This quote highlights the potential dangers of examining mortal beauty or terrestrial virtue under intense scrutiny. The "torch of Truth" – representing objective analysis or scrutiny – can reveal aspects that we may not be capable of perceiving on our own, or may even choose to ignore. By suggesting that certain truths should remain hidden, the quote raises the notion that excessive scrutiny can diminish or distort our understanding of beauty and virtue.