Pretentiousness isn’t always just big words and meaningless jargon, but also pretty words that either when put into action don’t mean beans or hurt you in the long run. Oftentimes, the former appeals to the...

The saying ‘flattery gets you everywhere’ appalls me. If you’re going to pay someone a compliment make sure it’s 100% genuine or not at all.-Flattery is deception and who wants to be lied to?

The difference between appreciation and flattery? That is simple. One is sincere and the other insincere. One comes from the heart out; the other from the teeth out. One is unselfish; the other selfish. One...

If a story is w/out flaws or doubts, it is flattery or even brainwashing. You should read it as if drinking a glass of water. But be prepared – you would not remember its taste.

What a situation!’ cried Miss Squeers; ‘…What is the reason that men fall in love with me, whether I like it or not, and desert their chosen intendeds for my sake?’ ‘Because they can’t help...

He stepped down, avoiding any long look at her as one avoids long looks at the sun, but seeing her as one sees the sun, without looking.

You can receive all the compliments in the world, but that won’t do a thing unless you believe it yourself.

Look closely at those who patronize you. Half are unfeeling, half untaught.

Immigration is the sincerest form of flattery.

Leave this hypocritical prating about the masses. Masses are rude, lame, unmade, pernicious in their demands and influence, and need not to be flattered, but to be schooled. I wish not to concede anything to...

He flattered himself on being a man without any prejudices; and this pretension itself is a very great prejudice

I do not know whether anyone has ever succeeded in not enjoying praise. And, if he enjoys it, he naturally wants to receive it. And if he wants to receive it, he cannot help but...

When you’re appeasing too much, you might be egotistically over-estimating everyone’s need for your approval.

The reason that adulation is not displeasing is that, though untrue, it shows one to be of consequence enough, in one way or other, to induce people to lie.