“The only way to get rid of temptation is to yield to it… I can resist everything but temptation.”
- 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 only way to get rid of temptation is to yield to it… I can resist everything but temptation.”
Explanation
In this quote, Oscar Wilde humorously plays with the paradox of temptation and self-control. He suggests that the only way to truly rid oneself of temptation is to give in to it, implying that resisting temptation only makes it more appealing and difficult to avoid. Wilde’s statement captures the ironic truth that we often struggle most with desires or urges precisely because we try to resist them. By yielding, we seemingly rid ourselves of the conflict, yet in doing so, we give in to the very thing we sought to avoid.
The second part, “I can resist everything but temptation,” plays on the idea that self-discipline becomes irrelevant when faced with temptation. Wilde’s wit highlights the human weakness of succumbing to desires despite knowing the consequences. It also reflects the complexity of human nature, where individuals may strive for control yet find themselves unable to resist the appeal of indulgence.
In modern contexts, this quote speaks to the tension between desire and self-control in contemporary life. Wilde’s words highlight how temptation works in much the same way today—often leading to inner conflict and indulgence, even in the face of willpower. His remark encourages us to reflect on the irrationality of human behavior, especially when faced with the appealing yet fleeting nature of our desires. Ultimately, Wilde’s words remind us that temptation is a constant challenge, one that requires both awareness and resilience to manage effectively.
