The quote “Fame destroys the people who believe it” from Karen Kingsbury's "The Bailey Flanigan Collection" highlights the dangerous allure of fame. It suggests that individuals who become enamored with fame may lose their sense of self and their values. The pursuit of fame can lead to a distorted reality, where personal worth is measured by public recognition rather than intrinsic qualities.

This perspective serves as a cautionary reminder that fame can have detrimental effects, particularly when individuals tie their identity and self-esteem to their public persona. In the context of the stories in the collection, it emphasizes the importance of staying grounded and maintaining authentic relationships, rather than chasing hollow accolades.