Those who find ugly meanings in beautiful things are corrupt without being charming. This is a fault. Those who find beautiful meanings in beautiful things are the cultivated. For these, there is hope.

Those who find ugly meanings in beautiful things are corrupt without being charming. This is a fault. Those who find beautiful meanings in beautiful things are the cultivated. For these, there is hope.

📖 Oscar Wilde

🌍 Irish  |  👨‍💼 Poet

🎂 October 16, 1854  –  ⚰️ November 30, 1900
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Oscar Wilde's quotation offers a profound commentary on perception and the inner virtues that shape our appreciation of beauty and ugliness. It suggests that individuals who perceive ugliness in beautiful things may be morally flawed or corrupted, yet lack the charm or sophistication that might offset this defect. Their view reflects a negativity or a skewed perspective that diminishes the true essence of beauty, perhaps revealing a tendency toward cynicism or critical judgment that does not elevate but rather diminishes. On the other hand, Wilde extols those who find beauty in beauty, viewing them as cultivated—people who possess refined taste, open-mindedness, and a positive outlook that recognizes and cherishes the inherent value in aesthetic and moral beauty alike. These individuals are seen as hopeful, implying that their appreciation and acknowledgment of beauty contribute to personal growth and societal improvement. The quote underscores the importance of a positive perception, suggesting that cultivating beauty in our worldview leads to moral and aesthetic enrichment. It invites us to reflect on our own tendencies: do we see ugliness where beauty exists, or do we find and nurture beauty within the world and ourselves? Wilde's words serve as a reminder of the power of perception and the transformative effect of cultivating a positive and discerning outlook on life. They challenge us to consider how our judgments shape our character and to strive toward seeing the good that is often hidden in plain sight.

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August 10, 2025

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