“Do the right thing. It will gratify some people and astonish the rest.”
- November 30, 1835 – April 21, 1910
- American
- Author, humorist, and lecturer
- Wrote masterpieces such as “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” and had a major influence on American literature
Quote
“Do the right thing. It will gratify some people and astonish the rest.”
Explanation
Mark Twain’s quote humorously highlights the contradictions and surprises that often arise when a person chooses to do what is morally right, especially in a world where doing the right thing is not always the norm. By stating that doing the right thing will “gratify some people and astonish the rest,” Twain suggests that goodness and integrity are not always widely accepted or appreciated, and that in some cases, doing the right thing may be unexpected or even shocking to others. The humor comes from the irony that doing what is right can sometimes feel out of place or extraordinary, as if it’s a rare or unexpected action, rather than the standard.
Twain’s remark reflects his skepticism of societal norms and the human tendency to fall into patterns of behavior that may not always align with what is just or moral. He implies that, in many situations, choosing the right path can be so unexpected or unusual that it surprises people, and only a few will fully appreciate it for what it is. This highlights how the right choice often goes against the grain of convenience, self-interest, or popular opinion, which makes it seem astonishing to those who are used to seeing compromise or moral shortcuts.
In modern times, this quote is especially relevant in discussions of ethical behavior, integrity, and civic responsibility. Whether in business, politics, or personal life, doing what is right often takes courage and can lead to discomfort or opposition. Twain’s words remind us that doing the right thing might not always be easy or immediately gratifying, but it will stand out as a principled choice and may lead to respect from those who value honesty and integrity.
