The more defects a man may have, the older he is, the less lovable, the more resounding his success

The more defects a man may have, the older he is, the less lovable, the more resounding his success

The quote "The more defects a man may have, the older he is, the less lovable, the more resounding his success" can be seen as particularly relevant when discussing the life and works of the infamous Marquis de Sade. Sade was a French nobleman and writer who is best known for his explicit and often violent erotic novels, which were considered scandalous and immoral during his time. He was also known for his libertine lifestyle, which included numerous affairs, scandals, and run-ins with the law.

Sade's life was marked by a series of defects and controversies that only seemed to increase as he grew older. From a young age, he exhibited a rebellious and defiant nature, often getting into trouble with authority figures. As he matured, his behavior became increasingly erratic and violent, leading to multiple arrests and imprisonments. Despite his flaws and transgressions, Sade was able to achieve a certain level of success as a writer, with his works gaining a cult following and influencing later generations of writers and artists.

Sade's success as a writer can be seen as a direct result of his defects and controversial nature. His willingness to push boundaries and challenge societal norms set him apart from his contemporaries and made his work stand out. The shocking and explicit content of his novels, which often depicted acts of violence, sadism, and sexual depravity, garnered attention and controversy, ensuring that his name would be remembered long after his death.

However, Sade's success came at a cost. His reputation as a libertine and a provocateur made him a pariah in polite society, leading to his ostracization and isolation. As he grew older, his behavior became increasingly erratic and self-destructive, leading to further arrests and imprisonments. Despite his literary success, Sade's personal life was marked by tragedy and despair, with his final years spent in a mental asylum.