Quote by Henry James
I know at least what I am,' he simply went on; 'the other side of the medal's clear enough. I've not been edifying--I believe I'm thought in a hundred quarters to have been barely decent. I've followed strange paths and worshipped strange gods; it must have come to you again and again--in fact you've admitted to me as much--that I was leading, at any time these thirty years, a selfish frivolous scandalous life. And you see what it has made of me.
Summary
In this quote, the speaker reflects on his own self-awareness and acknowledges that his character and actions have been seen in a negative light by many. He admits to leading a self-centered and reckless life, acknowledging his reputation as a scandalous individual. The quote implies that the consequences of his choices and behaviors have shaped him into something undesirable or unimpressive. It displays a level of introspection and acceptance of personal accountability for the speaker's own transformation.
By Henry James