Laws of Power – 32

Play to peoples fantasies: The truth is often avoided because it is ugly and unpleasant. Never appeal to truth and reality unless you are prepared for the anger that comes from disenchantment. Life is so harsh and distressing that people who can manufacture romance or conjure up fantasy are like oases in the desert: Everyone flocks to them. There is great power in tapping into the fantasies of the masses.

Two situations come to mind when I think about this law. The first is the public aspect. A person must insert themselves into the public eye if they are to gain any benefits here. A recluse will always remain in the shadows unseen by anyone until they take a risk and step into the light. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. The second facet is the private one. Like marriage or a serious relationship, I think we have a personal duty to inspire and support. Anyone who dwells on the negative is surely doomed to misery. The cold truth about life is that the longer we examine, the more flaws become apparent. As individuals, it is incumbent upon us to perfect ourselves in every way possible. In the process of personal revitalization, we bring springtime into our inner circle. The alternative begins to resemble stale bread.