Meaning: Jean de La Bruyère, a 17th-century French philosopher and moralist, wrote the quote "As favor and riches forsake a man, we discover in him the foolishness they concealed, and which no one perceived before." This quote reflects the idea that when a person loses favor and wealth, their true character is revealed, often showing foolishness that was previously hidden. La Bruyère's insightful observation delves into the relationship between external success and internal character, shedding light on the impact of material possessions and social standing on an individual's perceived wisdom and intelligence.

The quote suggests that when a person is in a position of favor and wealth, others may be inclined to overlook or even be blind to their foolish behavior or lack of wisdom. This can be attributed to the societal tendency to associate success and affluence with intelligence and prudence, leading to the masking of a person's true nature. When a person enjoys favor and riches, their flaws and shortcomings may be overshadowed by the external trappings of success, creating an illusion of wisdom and insight that may not necessarily be grounded in reality.

However, as the favor and riches diminish or are lost, the veil of illusion is lifted, exposing the true character of the individual. The quote implies that the absence of external validation and material wealth removes the protective shield that concealed the foolishness within the person. In this state of vulnerability and adversity, the person's true nature is laid bare, and their foolishness becomes evident to those around them.

La Bruyère's observation invites reflection on the nature of human perception and the influence of external factors on our understanding of others. It prompts us to consider how our judgments of individuals may be swayed by their external circumstances, and how our perception of their wisdom and foolishness may be clouded by societal norms and biases.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the transient nature of favor and riches, emphasizing the importance of looking beyond external trappings to discern the true character of individuals. It serves as a reminder that material success and social standing are not definitive indicators of wisdom or foolishness, and that true insight into a person's character requires a deeper understanding that transcends external appearances.

In a broader societal context, the quote resonates with the timeless theme of the human condition, reminding us that our true nature cannot be concealed indefinitely by external trappings. It speaks to the universal experience of facing adversity and the revelation of character that comes with it, serving as a cautionary tale against placing undue importance on superficial markers of success.

In conclusion, Jean de La Bruyère's quote offers a thought-provoking insight into the dynamics of favor, riches, and the revelation of foolishness in individuals. It prompts introspection on the nature of perception, the impact of external circumstances on our understanding of others, and the transient nature of material success. This timeless observation continues to resonate with its enduring relevance, inviting contemplation on the complexities of human character and the illusions that may shroud it.