“The salesman knows nothing of what he is selling save that he is charging a great deal too much for it.”
- October 16, 1854 – November 30, 1900
- Irish
- Author, poet, playwright
- Written novels, plays, and poems such as “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” “The Importance of Being Earnest,” and “Salome,” he had a great influence on British literature in the late 19th century through his witty social criticism and humor.
Quote
“The salesman knows nothing of what he is selling save that he is charging a great deal too much for it.”
Explanation
In this humorous yet critical quote, Oscar Wilde exposes the deceptive nature of commercial transactions, particularly in the context of sales. He suggests that the salesman, though an expert in selling, often knows very little about the actual quality or value of the product they are selling. What the salesman understands most clearly, however, is that the price he is charging is inflated—that he is overcharging the customer. Wilde’s comment critiques not only the lack of transparency in consumerism but also the exploitation that can occur when products are sold at prices that far exceed their worth.
Wilde’s cynicism reflects his broader critique of society and commerce. He often pointed out the absurdity of human behavior, particularly when it came to social conventions and financial transactions. In this case, the salesman is emblematic of a system where profit takes precedence over quality, and the customer is often unaware of the true value of what they are buying.
In modern times, this quote continues to resonate in the context of consumer culture, where markups, advertising, and brand influence can obscure the true value of goods. Wilde’s words serve as a reminder to question the prices and claims that are often made in the marketplace, encouraging consumers to be more critical of what they are being sold and the real value it holds.
