Poetry · Chapter
CXLIV explained
The chapter discusses the nature of egotism, arguing that the most offensive egotist is one who avoids saying 'I' and 'me.' It contrasts dogmatic statements with modest ones, using Montaigne as an example of a delightful essayist whose humi
What happens
The chapter discusses the nature of egotism, arguing that the most offensive egotist is one who avoids saying 'I' and 'me.' It contrasts dogmatic statements with modest ones, using Montaigne as an example of a delightful essayist whose humility allows him to forget himself without artifice.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Self-Deception
The chapter critiques the artifice of those who avoid personal pronouns as a form of self-deception, contrasting it with Montaigne's genuine humility.
Key passages
“The most offensive egotist is he that fears to say 'I' and 'me.'”
The worst kind of egotist is the one who is afraid to use the words 'I' and 'me.'
The author defines egotism by the avoidance of self-reference.
“Montaigne is the most delightful of essayists because so great is his humility that he does not think it important that we see not Montaigne.”
Montaigne is the most charming essayist because his humility is so profound that he does not care if we fail to see him.
Montaigne's humility is praised for its lack of pretense.