"Of two evils choose the prettier"

The quote "Of two evils choose the prettier" by Carolyn Wells is a witty twist on the more standard expression, "Of 2 evils, pick the lower". Wells' version plays with the principle of decision-making in between unpleasant options by including a superficial requirement-- prettiness-- into the mix. This change triggers numerous analyses and reflections on human nature, values, and the decision-making procedure.

Firstly, the quote might be viewed as a commentary on the propensity of people and societies to be swayed by look. It recommends that when faced with challenging choices, people may prioritize superficial appeal over substantive benefit. In this light, Wells highlights a common human failing: the tendency to judge based upon appearances rather than underlying qualities. This disposition to select what's "prettier" might be a critique of superficiality, urging readers to assess the depth and knowledge of their options.

Conversely, the quote might be interpreted humorously or satirically. By presenting "prettier" as a choice criterion, Wells may be poking fun at the human tendency to trivialize major matters. In essence, it suggests that when confronted with inherently negative choices, the requirements for decision-making ended up being rather unreasonable. The humor emerges from acknowledging that picking an "wicked" based upon prettiness does not relieve the inherent negativeness of the options but adds a layer of irony.

At a deeper level, Wells' quote may mean the psychological comfort found in making choices under duress. When options are restricted to bad choices, discovering any form of positivity-- even something as trivial as prettiness-- may provide solace or validation. The pretty outside may function as a coping mechanism, a method to fix up with the discomfort of selecting an undesirable path.

Ultimately, Carolyn Wells' quip encourages introspection on how people browse tough choices and the worths they prioritize. It reflects the intricacies of humanity, where decision-making is typically affected by both rational and unreasonable elements.