Cyrano De Bergerac Quotes

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Nature, in establishing my outward form, forgot to give me inner grace."

This quote reflects the character Cyrano's self-perception; he admires his own intelligence, wit, and eloquence, but laments that his physical appearance does not match his inner qualities. Despite possessing an unconventional and often perceived as ugly exterior, Cyrano lacks the "inner grace" typically associated with beauty - charm, poise, or elegance - which makes him feel misunderstood by society. However, his unique perspective on life and his extraordinary talents eventually shine through, revealing that true beauty lies within a person's character rather than their physical appearance.

"I am but a poor penman who must needs have recourse to words of two syllables."

This quote by Cyrano de Bergerac suggests that he, being an eloquent writer, recognizes the difficulty in using simple words, as they are often more common and less poetic than complex ones. He expresses humility, acknowledging that his skills may not be extraordinary but require him to use lengthier words due to their power and emotional resonance.

"I'd rather make angels weep with my regrets than ever make devils smile with my joy."

This quote by Cyrano de Bergerac expresses a deep-seated preference for living a life of sincere remorse over one of insincere happiness or satisfaction. It suggests that the character values a life where he can look back with genuine regret, knowing he honored his authentic feelings and principles, rather than living a life of superficial joy that might bring temporary pleasure but could potentially bring long-term dissatisfaction or guilt. In essence, the quote highlights the importance of integrity, sincerity, and honesty in one's actions and decisions.

"Love is a luxury that the poor can ill afford, and yet it is the poor who are its principal victims."

This quote by Cyrano de Bergerac suggests that love, often associated with affection, romance, and emotional fulfillment, is a privilege or luxury that primarily affects those who have fewer resources or means to pursue it. The statement indicates that the poor, due to their economic circumstances, are more likely to experience the pains of love, as they may lack the resources needed to provide for themselves and their loved ones, making the pursuit of romantic love difficult or impossible. It's a poignant observation about the intersection of socio-economic status and emotional wellbeing, emphasizing that the most vulnerable members of society are often the ones who suffer from the deepest emotions and desires.

"There is no more terrible fate than to have good legs."

This quote by Cyrano de Bergerac humorously suggests that having an unattractive face or features can be a greater burden than having an attractive body, as it's these less-visible aspects of one's appearance that others often first notice. In other words, being physically beautiful on the outside may not necessarily lead to happiness if internal qualities such as kindness, intelligence, and wit are lacking. It's an insight into societal values and beauty standards, highlighting the importance of inner character over physical appearance.