6 Oscar Wilde quotes on life that are both witty and wise

The wit and wisdom in Oscar Wilde's works are unmatched, and some of his sayings continue to remain relevant

Oscar Wilde was a much-celebrated Anglo-Irish novelist, poet, playwright, and critic, whose flamboyant personality shone during the Victorian era. The wit and wisdom in his works are unmatched, and some of his sayings continue to remain relevant.

Here are some of his famous quotes you shouldn’t miss.

Inspirational Oscar Wilde quote for motivation: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”

“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken”

Wilde stressed authenticity as key to staying unique. To him, celebrating individuality mattered more than trying to fit in and be like someone else—that was the true marker of success, and something he advocated.

Oscar Wilde funny quote on money and success: “We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.”

“We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars”

While life may not look rosy all the time, it depends on what we choose to pay attention to. Even in the most difficult circumstances, we can remain hopeful and look at the brighter side of life. It’s a matter of perspective—to give up under trying experiences or look beyond, for hope and inspiration.

Famous Oscar Wilde quote on love and life: “To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all.”

“To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all”

Wilde believed in living life to the fullest. It meant following one’s purpose and passion, taking risks, and breaking boundaries. It was more about engaging with life than merely existing by going with the set rhythms and patterns. Those who did not move out of their comfort zone or venture out lived a monotonous life.

Timeless Oscar Wilde quote: “There is only one thing in the world worse than being talked about, and that is not being talked about.”

“There is only one thing in the world worse than being talked about, and that is not being talked about”

This quote implies that it is better to be talked about than ignored by others. Even if people are criticising and talking ill about you, there’s still some influence you exert on them. This is better than being inconsequential in their lives. He highlights the basic human need for fame and attention.

Oscar Wilde quote on hypocrisy and sincerity: “Experience is simply the name we give to our mistakes”

“Experience is simply the name we give to our mistakes”

Wilde looks at mistakes as experiences that we can learn and grow from. Instead of feeling embarrassed about our failures, we should view them as opportunities for building resilience, understanding, and wisdom.

Oscar Wilde quote on friendship and enemies: “Always forgive your enemies; nothing annoys them so much”

“Always forgive your enemies; nothing annoys them so much”

For him, forgiveness not only meant freeing yourself from the hurt and finding peace, but also failing the attempts of those who try to cause you pain. Forgiveness is thus a powerful response that will leave your enemies feeling more frustrated.