To say that a man is vain means merely that he is pleased with the effect he produces on other read more

To say that a man is vain means merely that he is pleased with the effect he produces on other people. A conceited man is satisfied with the effect he produces on himself.

Meek Nature's evening comment on the shows
That for oblivion that their daily birth
From all the read more

Meek Nature's evening comment on the shows
That for oblivion that their daily birth
From all the fuming vanities of earth.

Vanity is so secure in the heart of man that everyone wants to be admired: even I who write this, read more

Vanity is so secure in the heart of man that everyone wants to be admired: even I who write this, and you who read this.

And not a vanity is given in vain.

And not a vanity is given in vain.

Vanity keeps persons in favor with themselves who are out of favor with all others

Vanity keeps persons in favor with themselves who are out of favor with all others

Never "just run out for a few minutes" without looking your best. This is not vanity -- it's self-liking. Your read more

Never "just run out for a few minutes" without looking your best. This is not vanity -- it's self-liking. Your face is always on display.

There are no grades of vanity, there are only grades of ability in concealing it

There are no grades of vanity, there are only grades of ability in concealing it

Here files of pins extend their shining rows,
Puffs, powders, patches, bibles, billet-doux.

Here files of pins extend their shining rows,
Puffs, powders, patches, bibles, billet-doux.

Methinks I am a prophet new inspired
And thus, expiring, do foretell of him:
His rash fierce read more

Methinks I am a prophet new inspired
And thus, expiring, do foretell of him:
His rash fierce blaze of riot cannot last,
For violent fires soon burn out themselves;
Small show'rs last long, but sudden storms are short;
He tires betimes that spurs too fast betimes;
With eager feeding doth choke the feeder;
Light vanity, insatiate cormorant,
Consuming means, soon preys upon itself.