It was as though, so long as the deceit ran along quiet and monotonous, all of us let ourselves be deceived, abetting it unawares or maybe through cowardice, since all people are cowards and naturally prefer any kind of treachery because it has a bland outside.
In William Faulkner's "As I Lay Dying," the narrative explores the theme of deception among individuals. The characters appear to maintain a facade, allowing deceit to persist in their lives, which speaks to a deeper psychological aspect of human nature. This complacency in the face of dishonesty raises questions about the motivations behind their choices, suggesting that fear or cowardice often prevents them from confronting the uncomfortable truth.
The quote highlights an interesting perspective on societal behavior, indicating that people tolerate superficial treachery because it is easier than facing reality. This implicit collaboration in deceit reflects a common human tendency to prefer a false sense of security over the harshness of honesty. Through this lens, Faulkner critiques the moral paralysis that can arise when individuals choose comfort over integrity.