Meaning: This quote by Jean de La Bruyère, a 17th-century French philosopher and moralist, highlights the contrasting attitudes of vanity and modesty in the way individuals speak about themselves. The quote suggests that a vain person feels the need to either praise or criticize themselves, while a modest person refrains from discussing themselves altogether. It brings attention to the different ways in which individuals perceive and present themselves to others, shedding light on the underlying motivations and attitudes that drive their behavior.

The concept of vanity, or excessive pride in one's appearance, abilities, or achievements, has been a subject of exploration in various philosophical and literary works throughout history. In this quote, La Bruyère suggests that a vain person may feel the need to constantly draw attention to themselves, either by speaking highly of their accomplishments or by seeking sympathy through self-criticism. This behavior reflects a certain level of insecurity and a desire for external validation, as the vain individual seeks to bolster their self-image through the opinions of others.

On the other hand, the quote also emphasizes the virtue of modesty, which involves a humble and unassuming attitude towards one's own abilities and achievements. A modest person, according to La Bruyère, refrains from drawing attention to themselves and avoids speaking about their own qualities or accomplishments. This attitude reflects a sense of self-assuredness and a lack of need for external validation, as the modest individual is content with their own assessment of themselves and does not seek approval or praise from others.

The quote can be interpreted as a reflection of human nature and the different ways in which individuals navigate their own self-image and interactions with others. It raises questions about the motivations behind self-expression and the impact of one's attitude towards oneself on their relationships and interactions with others. Additionally, the quote can also be seen as a commentary on the societal norms and expectations surrounding self-promotion and humility.

In contemporary society, the quote remains relevant as individuals continue to navigate the balance between self-confidence and humility in their personal and professional lives. The rise of social media and the digital age has introduced new platforms for self-expression and self-promotion, leading to a heightened focus on personal branding and image management. In this context, the quote by La Bruyère encourages individuals to consider the motivations behind their self-expression and the impact of their words and actions on others.

Furthermore, the quote also invites reflection on the nature of authenticity and sincerity in communication. It prompts individuals to consider whether their self-expression is driven by a genuine desire to connect with others or by a need for validation and approval. By highlighting the contrast between vanity and modesty, the quote encourages individuals to cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves and their motivations, ultimately leading to more meaningful and authentic interactions with others.

In conclusion, the quote by Jean de La Bruyère serves as a thought-provoking exploration of human nature, self-expression, and the attitudes of vanity and modesty. It raises important questions about the motivations behind self-promotion and humility, as well as the impact of one's attitude towards oneself on their relationships and interactions with others. As individuals continue to navigate the complexities of self-expression in the modern world, the wisdom encapsulated in this quote remains relevant and worthy of contemplation.