Quote by Josh Billings

Flattery is like cologne; water, to be smelt, not swallowed.

Flattery is like cologne; water, to be smelt, not swallowed.

Summary

This quote means that flattery can be compared to a strong scent that is pleasant to sniff but should not be consumed. In other words, receiving flattery may feel good momentarily, like the fragrance of cologne, but it is not something to fully trust or believe in. Similar to how water can be smelled to appreciate its scent, flattery should be perceived without taking it to heart or letting it influence one's judgment. It highlights the idea that flattery often has a superficial or manipulative nature, and one should be cautious of its intentions.

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By Josh Billings

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