Meaning: The quote by James Payn, a renowned English novelist, delves into the diverse perspectives people hold regarding self-inflicted pain. Payn expresses his astonishment at the wide range of opinions on this subject, emphasizing the need to carefully examine and sift through these viewpoints. He also highlights the importance of excluding cases of self-harm from the discussion, particularly those individuals who engage in self-inflicted pain.

The quote alludes to the complexity and depth of human behavior and psychology, specifically in relation to the act of self-inflicted pain. Payn's use of the phrase "pinch themselves" suggests a deliberate, physical act of causing pain, which can be interpreted in various ways. It can encompass behaviors such as self-harm, self-punishment, or even masochistic tendencies.

The phrase "how very various are the opinions entertained on this point" underscores the diversity of perspectives surrounding the topic of self-inflicted pain. This diversity may stem from cultural, psychological, or personal factors, leading to a wide spectrum of beliefs and attitudes toward such behavior. Payn's expression of surprise at the breadth of opinions indicates the intricate nature of this subject and the challenges associated with understanding and addressing it.

Furthermore, Payn's reference to "sifting" the opinions suggests the need for careful examination and analysis of the diverse viewpoints. This process of sifting implies a thorough and systematic approach to understanding the underlying reasons and beliefs surrounding self-inflicted pain. It also emphasizes the importance of discerning valid and insightful perspectives from those that may be influenced by bias or misunderstanding.

The quote's final clause, "to eliminate from our inquiry the cases of that considerable class of persons who pinch themselves," underscores the need to differentiate between various motivations for self-inflicted pain. Payn suggests that certain cases, particularly those involving individuals who engage in self-harm, should be excluded from the broader discussion. This exclusion may be necessary to avoid conflating different motives and behaviors related to self-inflicted pain, and to focus on understanding the complexities of human behavior more accurately.

In essence, Payn's quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the multifaceted nature of attitudes towards self-inflicted pain. It highlights the need for a nuanced and careful approach to understanding this complex behavior, recognizing the diverse range of opinions and motivations that underlie it. Furthermore, Payn's emphasis on careful examination and the exclusion of certain cases underscores the importance of thoughtful and empathetic consideration when addressing this sensitive and complex topic.

In conclusion, James Payn's quote encapsulates the intricate and varied nature of opinions surrounding self-inflicted pain, urging for a careful and discerning approach to understanding this complex phenomenon. It prompts reflection on the diverse perspectives and motivations underlying such behavior, while also emphasizing the need to approach the topic with sensitivity and empathy. Payn's words serve as a reminder of the complexity of human behavior and the importance of thoughtful consideration when addressing challenging and sensitive subjects.