This quote suggests that the portrayal of literary figures, or more broadly, public personalities, is often distorted, both during their lifetime and after their death. Satire, a form of humor that criticizes, mocks, or ridicules, is often used to exaggerate the flaws and shortcomings of individuals while they are alive. It doesn’t necessarily present the whole truth about a person, but rather a skewed version that serves the purpose of humor or criticism.

On the other hand, eulogy, which is a speech or piece of writing that praises someone highly, typically someone who has just died, tends to idealize or romanticize the individual. It often overlooks their flaws and focuses solely on their virtues, thus presenting a distorted, overly positive image of the person.

In today’s world, we can see this idea applied in the way media and society portray celebrities, politicians, or any public figures. While they are alive, they are often the subject of satire, their every move scrutinized and their flaws exaggerated for entertainment or political purposes. But once they pass away, the narrative often shifts to a more positive one, focusing on their achievements and positive attributes, sometimes to the point of idolization.

In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a reminder to be aware of the biases and distortions in the way people are portrayed. It can encourage us to seek a more balanced, nuanced understanding of individuals, recognizing that everyone has both strengths and weaknesses, successes and failures. It can also remind us not to define our self-worth based on how others perceive or portray us, as these perceptions are often skewed and incomplete.