This quote delves into the complex relationship between humility, ego, and societal expectations. It highlights a paradox: many writers, and perhaps individuals in general, harbor doubts about their abilities yet refrain from expressing these doubts openly. Instead, they adopt modesty as a social facade that conceals underlying ego. From a psychological perspective, modesty acts as a social lubricant, allowing individuals to navigate societal norms without eliciting negative judgments. However, the quote provocatively suggests that true modesty inside might be rare, because the very act of limiting one's self-promotion often stems from an internal ego that seeks to protect self-image. The idea that modesty is rooted more in ego than humility challenges the traditional view of humility as a virtue. It also touches on societal dynamics where honesty about one's feelings, fears, or self-assessment might be penalized, reinforcing superficial social politeness over genuine self-perception. The reference to Camus adds a philosophical layer, implying a reflection on existential authenticity versus societal masks. Living within societal expectations often suppresses genuine self-awareness and honesty, leading to a performative humility crafted for social survival rather than true humility of the inner self. The quote encourages a reconsideration of what it means to be modest and whether societal 'modesty' truly reflects internal sincerity or simply a strategic ego safeguard. Recognizing this dynamic can be empowering, as it invites us to cultivate authentic humility that isn’t dictated by societal norms but rooted in honest self-awareness.