“I have never known anyone worth a damn who wasn't irrevocably cynical.”
— Ezra Pound
Simplified Meaning:
People who have a deep understanding of the world's realities often develop a skeptical or doubtful outlook. This means they tend to question things and not take everything at face value. Consider a journalist who has seen a lot of corruption in politics. Having witnessed so many lies and deceptions, they might stop believing that politicians can be completely honest. This doesn't mean the journalist is negative about everything; it's more about being realistic and cautious based on their experiences. In everyday life, being a bit cynical can help you avoid getting tricked or disappointed because you're more aware of potential problems. If you approach situations with a healthy dose of skepticism, you can make better, more informed decisions.