This quote is essentially a commentary on the paradoxical nature of human perception and judgement. It suggests that a person who lies through his words is often perceived negatively and earns a bad reputation. However, another person who lies through his manners, that is, through his actions or behavior, often manages to maintain a good reputation.
The first part of the quote refers to someone who is deceitful in their speech. This individual may make false promises, spread false information, or simply not tell the truth. Such behavior is typically easy to spot and as a result, the individual quickly earns a bad reputation.
The second part of the quote refers to someone who is deceitful in their manners. This individual may present themselves as kind, generous, or caring, while their true intentions or feelings are quite different. This form of deceit is often harder to detect, as it requires one to look beyond surface appearances and question the sincerity of the individual’s actions. As a result, this individual often manages to maintain a good reputation.
In today’s world, this quote is particularly relevant in the context of social media and online interactions. People often present idealized versions of their lives, behaviors, and personalities online, effectively ‘lying’ through their manners. Yet, these individuals often enjoy good reputations because their deceit is not easily detectable.
In terms of personal development, this quote serves as a reminder to be authentic and truthful in both words and actions. It encourages individuals to align their actions with their words and to be sincere in their interactions with others. It also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and the ability to look beyond surface appearances when forming judgments about others.
