Quote by Oscar Wilde, The Picture of Dori
There is a fatality about all physical and intellectual distinction, the sort of fatality that seems to dog through history the faltering steps of kings. It is better not to be different from one's fellows. The ugly and the stupid have the best of it in this world. They can sit at their ease and gape at the play. If they know nothing of victory, they are at least spared the knowledge of defeat. They live as we all should live, undisturbed, indifferent, and without disquiet. They neither bring ruin upon others, nor ever receive it, from alien hands. Your rank and wealth, Harry; my brains, such as they are- my art, whatever it may be worth; Dorian Gray's good looks- we shall all suffer for what the gods have given us, suffer terribly.
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Summary
This quote from Oscar Wilde's novel, "The Picture of Dorian Gray," reflects the belief that those who possess physical or intellectual distinctions are burdened with a certain inevitability of hardship throughout history. It suggests that it is preferable to blend in with the crowd, as the ugly and the unintelligent are able to navigate life without the knowledge of defeat or the responsibility of causing ruin. The quote implies that individuals who hold rank, wealth, beauty, or talent are fated to suffer due to their unique attributes, emphasizing the idea that fortune comes at a price.