“Ordinary riches can be stolen; real riches cannot. In your soul are infinitely precious things that cannot be taken from you.”
- 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
“Ordinary riches can be stolen; real riches cannot. In your soul are infinitely precious things that cannot be taken from you.”
Explanation
In this quote, Oscar Wilde contrasts material wealth with spiritual or inner riches, emphasizing that the things of the soul—such as wisdom, love, creativity, and peace—are the true treasures that cannot be taken away. While ordinary riches, like money or possessions, can be stolen or lost, the true value lies in the intangible qualities that shape a person’s character and essence. Wilde’s message is that inner wealth is far more enduring and meaningful than any material wealth, because it is not vulnerable to external forces.
Wilde’s focus on spiritual riches reflects his broader belief in the importance of individuality, self-expression, and the human spirit. In many of his works, Wilde celebrates the idea that true fulfillment comes from within, and that the external world—with its material concerns and social judgments—cannot take away what makes us unique or whole. This quote encourages the reader to place value on the non-material aspects of life, which are the things that truly define a person’s worth and resilience.
In modern times, this quote resonates in the context of the pursuit of personal growth and the search for meaning beyond material success. It serves as a reminder that the most precious aspects of life—our values, relationships, and inner peace—are the things that ultimately give us true strength. Wilde’s words encourage us to cultivate these inner treasures, as they provide lasting fulfillment and security that cannot be taken away by external circumstances.
