Quote by Alexander Pope
Did some more sober critics come abroad? If wrong, I smil'd; if right, I kiss'd the rod.
Summary
This quote reflects a mindset of openness and humility towards criticism. The speaker acknowledges that they have encountered both sober and critical voices. Regardless of whether the critics were right or wrong, the speaker's reaction is either to smile or to accept the criticism with humility ("kiss'd the rod"). This quote suggests that the speaker's attitude towards feedback is one of acceptance and a willingness to learn from others' perspectives, regardless of the outcome.