"Don't be "consistent" but be simple true"

Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.'s quote, "Don't be 'consistent' but be easy true", invites reflection on the relationship in between consistency, truth, and credibility in our actions and ideas. To totally interpret this quote, we need to consider the context in which Holmes was writing, in addition to the broader philosophical ramifications that it suggests.

Holmes is promoting for authenticity over a stiff adherence to past actions or beliefs. When he advises versus being "consistent", he challenges the societal standard that values predictability and uniformity. Consistency, in a standard sense, indicates an unfaltering positioning with previous statements or habits, typically for its own sake. This might indicate adhering to out-of-date or incorrect beliefs merely due to the fact that they have been complied with in the past, despite their current applicability or truth.

The juxtaposition of being "simple true" against "consistent" recommends that Holmes values honesty and a direct engagement with truth. "Simple" in this context suggests an absence of intricacy or artifice, advocating for a straightforwardness that cuts through unnecessary or false pretenses. "True" suggests a genuineness and commitment to what is genuine or authentic. Holmes seems to be encouraging us to prioritize an open and truthful engagement with the world, even if it requires us to change our opinions or actions.

From a philosophical angle, this quote can be viewed as resonating with Emersonian transcendentalist perfects, where individual perception and experience take primacy over societal or historical norms. Holmes' counsel emphasizes the significance of being adaptive and receptive to new insights, instead of being constrained by the desire to appear consistent.

Furthermore, the quote can also be viewed as a critique of hypocrisy. Being true may require one to admit previous errors or revise outdated beliefs, actions that need guts and self-awareness. Holmes suggests that integrity includes a dedication to fact that transcends the superficial consistency valued by society.

In general, Holmes requires a vibrant approach to life that accepts modification and truth, promoting for integrity over dogmatic adherence to the familiar.