Oscar Wilde: Taking or Begging

Posted by admin on Friday, March 12, 2021

Oscar Wilde Money Quote saying if concerned about safety, it is better to beg. When appearances matter more, theft is preferred. Oscar Wilde said:
 

 

“As for begging, it is safer to beg than to take, but it is finer to take than to beg” — Oscar Wilde

 

 

This quote from Oscar Wilde suggests that while begging carries more risk than taking what one needs without permission, taking is a nobler act than begging. Wilde seems to be implying that begging for charity involves a loss of dignity and independence, putting one at the mercy of others’ generosity.

In contrast, taking implies self-reliance and asserting one’s own needs rather than pleading for the aid of others. The quote conveys the perspective that when in difficult circumstances requiring survival or sustenance, it is preferable from an integrity standpoint to provide for oneself through direct action rather than humble supplication.

Overall, Wilde presents the view that self-provisioning carries more honor than begging, even if it may bring greater danger in the eyes of the law or authorities.

Birthday: October 16, 1854 – Death: November 30, 1900

Categories: poverty Tagged:begbeggingoscar wilde