Baltasar Gracián

Baltasar Gracián y Morales:

(Belmonte (near Calatayud), 1601 – Tarazona (in Aragon).
Spanish Jesuit known as a writer of amoral, illusory, “Machiavellian”, often cynically named books, including Handoracle and Art of Prudence.
His work was praised by Nietzsche, Voltaire, Stendhal and La Rochefoucauld. Schopenhauer translated Handorakel into German. Gracián also wrote under the name Lorenzo Gracián and under the anagram Gracía de Marlones. His actual surname was Galacian y Morales. He adopted the name by which he was known, Baltasar Gracián, upon joining the Jesuit order.

In all things, deceit arrives first, dragging fools behind it in endless vulgarity. Truth is always late, last to arrive, limping along with time.

The wrong manner turns everything sour, even justice and reason. The right one makes up for everything: it turns a “no” golden, sweetens truth, and makes even old age look pretty.

Image: Peter van Geest AI. Meaning: This saying emphasizes the importance of the way (intention, style, attitude) one acts or communicates, rather than just the content of the message. The implication is that form and context are crucial to how something is experienced and accepted. **Origin:** Baltasar Gracián is cited by some online as the author, likely due to the thematic similarity to his work. However, conclusive proof of authorship (such as a citation in his official writings) is lacking in literary and scholarly sources.

Consider it an honor to be criticized, especially by those who speak ill of good people. You should be pained when your things please everyone; it is a sign that they are not good, for perfection belongs to only a few.

Image: Peter van Geest AI. **Meaning:** *Honor of Criticism:* This quote encourages viewing criticism as a sign of worth. It suggests that when you are criticized, it often comes from people who are themselves incapable of acting appropriately. *Sense of Vulnerability:* The idea that you should feel hurt when everyone else is pleased with your actions suggests that conformity or avoiding criticism can indicate a lack of authenticity or quality. *Perfection:* This quote emphasizes that perfection is rare and that receiving criticism is normal. **Source:** “*The Art of Worldly Wisdom.”*
*Content:* This frequently cited work offers advice on how to conduct oneself in the complex world of social interactions and political intrigue. Gracián emphasizes the need for caution, tact, and strategy in life. *Key Themes* *Practical Wisdom:* Gracián encourages acting wisely and strategically in social situations. *Criticism and Reflection:* His work addresses the value of self-reflection and the impact of criticism, which aligns with the previously discussed statement about criticism. *Conclusion:* Gracián’s work remains relevant and offers timeless lessons on human nature and social skills, making him an influential thinker in philosophy and literature.

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