The Candour of Maturity
This work explores the concept of maturity and its relationship to candour. It argues that true maturity involves a willingness to confront reality and speak truthfully about it, even if it is uncomfortable or unpopular. The text examines how societal pressures and expectations can stifle this kind of candour, leading individuals to adopt more superficial or insincere forms of communication. Through a series of philosophical and psychological insights, the work aims to encourage readers to cultivate greater honesty and authenticity in their own lives.
By Hilaire Belloc · First published 1909 · Genre: Comedy, Satire, Drama · 2,212 words
First lines
(_The Marquis_ DE LA MISE-EN-SCENE _is discovered writing at a little inlaid table. He is about 42 years of age, and looks worse than that. He believes himself to be alone in the room, when he is somewhat suddenly addressed from the open door by the Duchess_ DE LA TOUR-DE-FORCE_, who has just entered. She is a woman of about 55, somewhat too commanding. The place is Versailles, and the time is 1753._)
THE DUCHESS DE LA TOUR-DE-FORCE. What are you doing, Monsieur de la Mise-en-Scene?
What this Textopian page supports
The Candour of Maturity is listed on Textopian as an essay by Hilaire Belloc, dated 1909 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Hilaire Belloc
- Date: 1909 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Comedy, Satire, Drama, Historical Fiction, Romance
- Length: 2,212 words
- Structure: 1 section, 49 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Candour of Maturity by Hilaire Belloc
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Comedy — The dialogue is witty and humorous, focusing on the absurdity of the characters' interactions and the situation.
- Satire — The work satirizes social norms and the institution of marriage, highlighting the superficiality of aristocratic life.
- Drama — The narrative involves dramatic elements such as proposals of marriage and social maneuvering.
- Historical Fiction — The setting is historical, taking place in Versailles in 1753, with references to the customs and social structures of the time.
Tags
Philosophy · Psychology · Self-Improvement · Personal Growth · Maturity · Wisdom · Insight · Reflection · Life Lessons · Spirituality · Existentialism · Human Condition