Painterly ornate purple and gold mask with mirror-like facets and dark feathers against violet.

Original artwork, not a still

Maxim 39

François de la Rochefoucauld

Interest speaks all sorts of tongues, and plays all sorts of parts, even that of disinterestedness.

Behind the line

What it means

Our 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.

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