This quote essentially suggests that the mutual politeness and respect between authors is often laughable and absurd, akin to a scene in a comedic play of life. The reason for this could be because such civility may not always be genuine. Authors might exchange pleasantries and compliments in public while privately harboring competitive feelings or critical opinions about each other’s work. This makes their reciprocal civility seem like a farce, an act put on for the benefit of others.
The phrase “risible scenes” implies that this behavior is not just absurd but also amusing to observe. It’s as if these interactions are part of a comedy show where people pretend to be what they are not, making it one of the most comical aspects of human social behavior.
In today’s world, this idea can be applied beyond just authors; it holds true for any profession where there is competition masked by outward displays of friendliness. In industries such as entertainment or business, it’s common to see people maintaining a façade of camaraderie while secretly being rivals.
From a personal development perspective, this quote can serve as a reminder about the importance of authenticity in our relationships and interactions with others. While politeness and respect are essential social norms, they should stem from sincerity rather than pretense or obligation. It encourages us to strive for genuine connections rather than participating in superficial exchanges which could make our lives feel like an insincere performance rather than an authentic experience.
