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Interest speaks all sorts of tongues, and plays all sorts of parts, even that of disinterestedness.
— François de la Rochefoucauld · Maxim 39
Behind the line May contain spoilers.
Our reading
An editorial interpretation.
The maxim pictures self-interest as a performer able to adopt many voices and roles. Even apparent freedom from personal interest can become a disguise. Its skepticism asks readers to look beyond the appearance of impartiality or selflessness when considering what may motivate an action.
Context reviewed