Really what it gets down to is that my idea of the American life, the American dream, whatever, is that I can do what I wish in the privacy of my own home. And as long as I'm not hurting anyone, no one has a right to know what I do. The main thing that I have to hide is that I don't have anything to hide.

Really what it gets down to is that my idea of the American life, the American dream, whatever, is that I can do what I wish in the privacy of my own home. And as long as I'm not hurting anyone, no one has a right to know what I do. The main thing that I have to hide is that I don't have anything to hide.

📖 William T. Vollmann

🌍 American  |  👨‍💼 Novelist

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This quote emphasizes personal liberty and the importance of privacy in the pursuit of individual happiness. It challenges the notion that privacy is inherently suspicious, suggesting instead that true freedom involves the freedom to live without unnecessary scrutiny, as long as one's actions do not harm others. The speaker underscores a paradox: the lack of concealment can be a virtue, highlighting that innocence and transparency often coexist with the desire for privacy. It raises questions about societal perceptions of morality and privacy, sparking reflection on the boundaries between personal freedom and societal judgment.

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January 02, 2026

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