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Meaning
This reads as a wry observation that a planned surprise is rarely under full control, because the person making the gesture may be caught off guard by the response. It can be taken to mean that marriage brings its own reversals, where one spouse’s cleverness meets the other’s equal unpredictability. It lands in domestic life, especially around gift-giving or secret plans that do not unfold neatly.
When It Was Said
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Who It Was Said To
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Historical Context
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Source
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Original Language & Translation
Originally said in English.
Did They Really Say It?
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Did You Know?
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About Voltaire
French Enlightenment writer and philosopher of the 18th century, he is best known for his wit and sharp critiques of religious intolerance and absolutism. His works, including *Candide* and *Treatise on Toleration*, remain influential for their blend of satire and philosophical inquiry.
More from Voltaire (235 quotes) →Keep reading Voltaire
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READ THE SOURCE
Books by Voltaire
Candide
2015
Zadig
2009
Dictionnaire philosophique
2010
The portable Voltaire
1949
Treatise on Toleration
2016