“A little sincerity is a dangerous thing, and a great deal of it is absolutely fatal.”
- 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
“A little sincerity is a dangerous thing, and a great deal of it is absolutely fatal.”
Explanation
In this quote, Oscar Wilde uses irony to critique the idea of sincerity and the overemphasis on being genuine or truthful in all situations. Wilde suggests that even a small amount of sincerity can be dangerous because it may lead to awkwardness, exposure, or even conflict, as it often reveals more than what is socially acceptable or comfortable. On the other hand, Wilde argues that an excessive amount of sincerity is “absolutely fatal” because it can overwhelm or alienate others, shattering the polite facades and social conventions that hold relationships and society together. Too much sincerity, in Wilde’s view, might expose truths that are too harsh, unpleasant, or disruptive to maintain the delicate balance of social interaction.
Wilde’s comment plays on the human tendency to value honesty, yet he highlights the paradox that too much truth-telling can be as harmful as deception. By suggesting that sincerity can be both dangerous and fatal, Wilde emphasizes the complexity of human relationships and how a careful balance of decorum and truth is needed for social harmony.
In modern contexts, this quote can be seen as a reflection on the social necessity of tact and the limits of brutal honesty. Wilde challenges us to think about when sincerity is appropriate and when it can be disruptive. It speaks to the tension between being genuine and maintaining the politeness and subtlety that allow social interaction to run smoothly, suggesting that sometimes a little strategic insincerity or politeness is necessary for the health of relationships.
