# Epigraph explained — The Canary Murder Case

> Chapter companion for The Canary Murder Case by S. S. Van Dine.

## What happens

The epigraph quotes Phaedrus, suggesting that appearances are deceptive and only intelligence can perceive hidden truths, setting a thematic foundation for the novel.

## Themes in this chapter

### Appearance vs. Reality

The epigraph directly introduces the theme that appearances deceive and that truth lies beneath the surface.

## Key lines

> First appearances deceive many: the intelligence alone perceives what has been carefully hidden in the recesses of the mind.

Many are fooled by surface impressions; only the perceptive mind can uncover what is deliberately concealed.

_This quote encapsulates the central tension between surface appearance and hidden reality._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_canary_murder_case_se/chapters/epigraph
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_canary_murder_case_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_canary_murder_case_se/chapters