Quote by Emil Cioran
If our fellow men could be aware of our opinions about them, love, friendship, and devotion would be forever erased from the dictionaries; and if we had the courage to confront the doubts we timidly conceive about ourselves, none of us would utter an I without shame.
Summary
This quote highlights the delicate balance between our perceptions of others and ourselves. It suggests that if people were aware of everyone's true opinions about them, it would eliminate concepts like love, friendship, and devotion, as people might be hurt or offended by others' thoughts. Furthermore, it implies that if we courageously addressed our doubts about ourselves, none of us would proudly assert our individuality without feeling some level of shame or self-doubt. Overall, this quote emphasizes the vulnerability and complexity inherent in human relationships and self-perception.
By Emil Cioran