"No exile at the South Pole or on the summit of Mont Blanc separates us more effectively from others than the practice of a hidden vice"

This quote by Marcel Proust speaks to the power of secrecy and how it can separate us from others. By taking part in a surprise vice, we are basically developing a barrier in between ourselves and the rest of the world. We are exiling ourselves from the rest of society, just as if we were sent out to the South Pole or the top of Mont Blanc. This quote is a suggestion that our actions, even those that are kept secret, can have an extensive impact on our relationships with others. It is a caution that we should be mindful of our behavior, even when we think no one is viewing. We need to strive to be sincere and open with those around us, as this is the only way to really get in touch with others.