The quote suggests that people often behave differently in private than they do in public. It implies that someone who appears cheerful or jovial when out and about may actually have concerns or complaints that are only expressed behind closed doors.
On a deeper level, this statement reflects on the complexity of human nature and the ways individuals present themselves to the world versus how they truly feel internally. The quote encourages us to be cautious about judging others based solely on their outward demeanor, as people often hide their true feelings or struggles from public view. It also serves as a reminder that one's private life can be vastly different from their public persona and that these discrepancies might offer insights into the person's character.
Johann Kaspar Lavater was an 18th-century Swiss poet, literary critic, and theologian who is best known for his work on physiognomy—the study of facial features to determine a person’s character or personality. He lived from 1741 to 1801 and had a significant influence on literature and philosophy during the Enlightenment period in Europe.
