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Poetry · Chapter
CLVII explained
The chapter reflects on the variability of convictions, suggesting that rigid consistency can lead to dishonesty.
What happens
The chapter reflects on the variability of convictions, suggesting that rigid consistency can lead to dishonesty.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Self-Deception
The chapter argues that unwavering consistency may itself be a form of dishonesty, highlighting the tension between moral rigidity and truth.
Key passages
“Convictions are variable; to be always consistent is to be sometimes dishonest.”
Beliefs change over time, and insisting on never changing your stance can lead to being untruthful.
The chapter's central aphorism challenges the virtue of consistency.