Bacon’s Essays – Of Truth

In Of Truth, Francis Bacon begins by discussing why some people dislike truth and prefer to avoid it. He starts with a reference to Pontius Pilate, a Roman governor mentioned in the Bible. Pilate once asked, “What is truth?” but did not stay to hear the answer.

Bacon uses this example to show that some people are not really interested in finding out what truth is; instead, they would rather live without being tied down to any fixed beliefs or facts. This behaviour, Bacon suggests, comes from a desire for freedom—freedom not only to act as they wish but also to think as they wish, without feeling constrained by any particular truth. Bacon notes that this attitude can feel like which means a sense of dizziness or a light-headed feeling. In this context, it symbolises the pleasure people feel in being free from certainty, like someone spinning around and not being able to see straight. Some people find it exciting to have no fixed beliefs because they do not want to be limited. They enjoy the freedom of not having to settle on any particular truth, which Bacon compares to feeling “free” in both thought and action.

This desire for freedom in thought and belief has deep roots. Bacon explains that, in ancient times, some philosophers encouraged this way of thinking. These philosophers did not want to be tied down to fixed ideas; instead, they believed in keeping an open mind, questioning everything, and not settling on one version of the truth. While these ancient philosophies have faded over time, Bacon suggests that the spirit of questioning and resisting fixed beliefs still exists in some people today. For example, Bacon says that although the “sects of philosophers of that kind be gone,” there are still people today who are like these ancient philosophers, though they may not be as committed or intense in their beliefs. He calls these people “discoursing wits,” meaning clever thinkers who like to discuss and question things. However, he says that modern thinkers are not as passionate or serious as those of ancient times, describing them as having “not so much blood” as the thinkers of the past. This means that while modern people might still question things, they do not do it with the same depth or seriousness as the ancient philosophers.

Bacon suggests that these people avoid truth because they see it as a limitation or a “bondage.” To them, accepting a particular truth feels like being chained down or restricted. They believe that once they accept something as true, they lose their freedom to explore other possibilities. For these people, the act of questioning and doubting is more valuable than actually finding the truth. Thus, Bacon’s opening discussion in Of Truth reveals that, for many, truth can feel confining, while the freedom to question endlessly is seen as liberating—even if it leads to confusion rather than clarity.

Bacon explains why people are naturally attracted to lies. He argues that lies can be appealing simply for the sake of being lies, even if they do not provide any practical benefits or enjoyment. This idea might seem strange at first. After all, people might expect lies to be told for some reason—such as to gain an advantage or avoid harm—but Bacon suggests that people sometimes love lies just because they can be comforting or even entertaining. He gives several examples to show why people might prefer lies to truth. For instance, he points out that people sometimes hold “vain opinions, flattering hopes, false valuations, [and] imaginations,” which help them feel better about themselves or their lives. If these comforting ideas were taken away, Bacon argues, many people would feel sad, dissatisfied, or empty. In other words, lies can act like a comforting illusion. These false beliefs may not help a person in any real way, but they give a sense of hope or satisfaction that the truth might not provide. To make his point clearer, Bacon uses a powerful metaphor. He compares truth to “naked and open daylight” and lies to the effect of “candle-lights.” By daylight, everything is seen clearly and plainly—just as truth reveals things exactly as they are. However, candlelight can make things look different and create illusions or even a magical atmosphere. Candlelight, like lies, hides flaws and adds a “stately and dainty” (majestic and elegant) charm that can make reality appear more appealing. This comparison suggests that, while truth is straightforward, lies add a sense of drama or allure, making them more attractive than the plainness of truth.

Bacon’s view of human nature is rather realistic. He believes that people often enjoy the “mixture of a lie” because it “add[s] pleasure” to life. For instance, people might believe that they are more talented or attractive than they actually are. These little self-deceptions might make people feel happy or confident. Without these “flattering hopes,” people would be left with a bare and possibly disappointing view of themselves and the world. This insight shows Bacon’s understanding of why people sometimes prefer comforting lies over harsh truths.

To further explore this attraction to lies, Bacon mentions a Greek school of philosophy that wondered why people love lies for no clear reason. The philosophers were puzzled by this because some lies do not bring any personal gain or enjoyment; they are not like the lies of a poet, which can entertain, or a merchant’s lies, which might increase profit. Instead, these lies are enjoyed simply for the sake of lying, with no real purpose. Bacon does not claim to fully understand this, but he recognises that it is a part of human nature. Through this argument, Bacon reveals an important truth about human psychology: people are sometimes more comfortable living with illusions than facing the bare, plain truth. Lies might provide temporary pleasure or confidence that truth cannot offer. Bacon’s exploration of this idea encourages readers to think about why they might choose comforting falsehoods over uncomfortable truths and to consider the effects of these choices on their lives.

Bacon adds that while truth is valuable, it often seems less exciting or attractive compared to lies. He acknowledges that, for many people, truth can appear plain or even dull. Lies, on the other hand, often have a sparkle or charm that truth lacks. Bacon uses a powerful metaphor to explain this: he compares truth to a pearl, which looks best in plain daylight, and lies to diamonds or carbuncles (a type of gem) that shine in different, more colourful lights. When he describes truth as a “pearl that showeth best by day,” he means that truth is clear, straightforward, and best appreciated in plain, honest light. Like a pearl, truth does not need anything extra to make it valuable. It is strong and steady, but it can appear simple or unremarkable because it does not dazzle with fancy effects. In contrast, Bacon compares lies to a diamond or carbuncle, which “showeth best in varied lights.” This means that lies can seem attractive because they can be presented in many different ways, each one colourful and appealing. Lies are like jewels that shine brighter and catch attention when they are in special lighting, adding a sense of mystery or excitement. For example, a rumour or a made-up story may seem thrilling because it’s dramatic or sensational, making people feel entertained or interested. Lies can offer something that truth does not—they can play with people’s imagination, creating stories or illusions that feel exciting even if they’re not real.

Bacon suggests that people are drawn to lies because they add “pleasure” and variety to life. If we look around, we might see this in everyday life. For example, consider how some people enjoy exaggerated stories or gossip. The details might not be true, but they make the story interesting. Or think of a poem or a movie that tells a fictional story—it can be entertaining and moving, even though we know it is not real. Bacon notes that some lies provide pleasure in a similar way, giving people a colourful or exciting view of the world, even if it is not true.

Bacon’s comparison also implies that truth, like daylight, sometimes forces people to see things they would rather avoid. Daylight does not hide flaws or imperfections—it reveals everything clearly. Similarly, truth often presents reality as it is, without making it more interesting or comforting. This can feel harsh or disappointing because it does not allow people to escape into fantasy or pretend things are different than they are. For example, if someone is struggling with a difficult situation, the truth might mean facing uncomfortable facts. A person might lie to him/herself, believing that everything will get better on its own, because that lie feels comforting. However, the truth might be that they need to make changes or face challenges. In this way, truth can feel less appealing because it lacks the comforting illusions or hopes that lies might offer.

Bacon distinguishes between two kinds of lies. The first kind are “passing lies” that come and go, like shadows. These lies might be told for temporary enjoyment or amusement and do not have a lasting effect on a person’s thinking. For example, someone might tell a small, harmless lie to entertain others briefly, and it does not stick in their mind or affect their beliefs. However, the second kind of lies are very dangerous. These are the lies that “sink in” and stay in the mind, becoming accepted as truth. These lies affect how people think, make decisions, and interact with the world. Bacon believes these deeply-rooted lies are harmful because they create a false view of reality, leading to confusion, poor judgement, and even harm.

To illustrate this point, Bacon uses an example involving poetry and imagination. He quotes an early Church Father who criticised poetry, calling it “the wine of demons” or “vinum dæmonum.” This term suggests that poetry, like strong wine, can cloud the mind, filling it with fantasy instead of truth. While poetry may give temporary pleasure, it often presents ideas that are not real. Bacon clarifies that poetry itself is not the main problem—it becomes harmful only when people start to believe these fictional ideas as truth, letting them “sink in” and influence their real-world understanding. Bacon argues that lies that sink deeply into the mind prevent people from seeing things as they are. If someone’s beliefs and decisions are based on lies, their actions and thoughts will be flawed and biased. For example, a person might hold “vain opinions” or “flattering hopes” about themselves—ideas that make them feel better temporarily but do not match reality. When the truth eventually comes out, these false beliefs can lead to disappointment or suffering.

Bacon asserts that if people gave up these comforting but false beliefs, they might feel empty or unhappy. He explains that without these “vain opinions, flattering hopes, false valuations, and imaginations,” people’s minds might feel “poor, shrunken things, full of melancholy.” In other words, people might hold on to these lies because they fear feeling empty or disillusioned. But Bacon warns that even if lies may seem pleasant or comforting, they deceive and weaken people by separating them from reality. He advises readers to be cautious of beliefs that seem appealing but lack truth. Instead, Bacon encourages people to seek truth, even if it is less glamorous than the “shadow of a lie.”

Bacon further claims that pursuing truth is the highest and most meaningful purpose of human life. He believes that the journey to truth has three important stages, which he describes as: seeking the truth, understanding the truth, and finally, believing in the truth. Bacon compares this journey to a kind of relationship. In this view, discovering and embracing truth is like building a deep connection or love with it. He explains the three phases of this quest towards truth as follows:

1. Seeking or “Courtship” of Truth: For Bacon, the journey towards truth begins with the desire to find it. He compares this phase to a “courtship” or “wooing,” where people pursue truth as if they are courting someone they care for. This involves curiosity, questioning, and the willingness to seek answers. Bacon suggests that the struggle involved in searching for truth is valuable because it shows a person’s commitment to understanding life more deeply and honestly.

2. Knowledge or “Presence” of Truth: After seeking truth, the next stage is knowing or being in the “presence” of truth. This stage is similar to the feeling of being close to someone after a long pursuit. Bacon sees this phase as the moment when a person finds clarity or realises what is true. Being in the presence of truth brings a sense of satisfaction and understanding, as it allows people to see things as they really are. This knowledge, Bacon believes, helps people live with a sense of purpose and honesty.

3. Belief or “Enjoyment” of Truth: Finally, Bacon describes the belief in truth as the “enjoyment.” This stage is when a person truly embraces and lives by what they have discovered as true. It is the moment when truth is no longer just a concept to be thought about, but something to be felt and cherished. This “enjoyment” of truth brings a sense of peace and fulfilment because the person now holds a steady and dependable belief that shapes their life.

Bacon further supports his idea by drawing on religious references. He says that, according to the Bible, when God created the world, He first made light, which allowed people to see clearly. Later, He gave humans the light of reason, which allowed them to think and understand. Bacon suggests that God continues to “breathe light” into people, helping them find clarity and knowledge. Just as light lets people see in the physical world, truth lets people understand in the mental and spiritual world.

To make his point more powerful, Bacon uses a metaphor of standing on a high hill, which he calls “the vantage-ground of truth.” Standing on this hill, a person can look down on the valleys below, where there is confusion, error, and “tempests” or storms. The hill, symbolising truth, gives people a clear view of the world. However, Bacon advises that this view should be looked at with compassion and not arrogance. He believes that truth allows people to understand others’ mistakes, but this should lead to sympathy rather than pride.

Thus, Bacon argues that truth is the ultimate goal of human nature, and reaching it brings fulfilment and goodness. The pursuit, understanding, and belief in truth connect people to a higher, divine purpose. The journey to truth, according to Bacon, is an important part of human life, like a courtship that results in lasting happiness and peace. This journey, he believes, is what makes a person truly complete, as it brings them closer to understanding life’s deepest meanings.

Bacon also talks about the importance of truth and honesty in everyday life, especially in public and professional matters. He believes that speaking and acting truthfully show the best qualities of human nature, such as integrity and honour. Bacon contrasts the value of honesty with the harm caused by lies, which, he argues, weaken a person’s character and bring shame. He uses several comparisons to make this idea clear, showing that lies may seem useful but ultimately make things worse. Bacon argues that “clear and round dealing” (honest and straightforward behaviour) is something to be admired. He says that even those who do not practice honesty will admit that it is a quality worth having. According to Bacon, truthfulness brings dignity to a person because it demonstrates trustworthiness and strength of character. For example, if someone tells the truth in difficult situations, people will respect and trust them, knowing they are reliable and genuine.

To show the damaging effects of lies, Bacon compares lies to alloyed metal. In his time, gold and silver were sometimes mixed with cheaper metals to make coins easier to produce. This mixture, however, reduced the value of the metal. Bacon says that a “mixture of falsehood” in a person’s words or actions is like adding an alloy to gold or silver; it might make things work temporarily, but it reduces the overall quality. In other words, a person who tells lies may achieve quick benefits, but they damage their character and reputation over time. For instance, imagine a person who lies to get a job by exaggerating their qualifications. They may get hired, but eventually, people may realise they lack the skills they claimed to have. This lie might make their work easier in the short term, but it will “embase” (spoil) their reputation, making people see them as untrustworthy and dishonourable.

Bacon also compares lying to the behaviour of a snake, describing it as “the goings of the serpent; which goeth basely upon the belly, and not upon the feet.” This image of the snake, moving close to the ground, suggests that lying is a low, shameful act. A snake does not stand upright; it slithers (slide smoothly) on its belly, hidden and sneaky (sly). Similarly, a lie is hidden and deceitful, aiming to deceive or trick people rather than being straightforward and honest. Bacon implies that lying is morally wrong because it involves “crooked” or “winding” (deviating and complicated) behaviour, going around the truth instead of facing it directly. For example, when someone lies about their actions to avoid blame, they might succeed in escaping consequences at first. However, this “crooked” path only serves to make them appear untrustworthy and shameful in the eyes of others. By choosing deceit, they lower themselves morally, just as the serpent “goes upon the belly” rather than walking upright.

Bacon states that being caught in a lie covers a person “with shame.” Lies may seem like a good way to avoid trouble or gain an advantage, but when others discover the dishonesty, it ruins the person’s reputation. He emphasises that nothing brings as much disgrace as being found “false and perfidious” (deceitful). People lose respect for those who lie because lying is a sign of weakness and cowardice. In support of this idea, Bacon refers to the French philosopher Michel de Montaigne, who says that calling someone a liar is almost like saying they “face” God but “shrink” from other people. This means that lying is an act of pride and rebellion against moral truth (represented by God) but shows fear of other people’s judgment. Montaigne’s view suggests that a liar is too weak to face the truth openly and instead hides behind lies to avoid criticism or punishment.

Finally, Bacon’s argument ends with a powerful warning. He suggests that lying is such a destructive habit that it will lead to God’s ultimate judgement. According to Christian teachings, God values honesty and truth, so when people lie, they go against these values. Bacon refers to a Bible prophecy that when Christ returns, he may not find much faith left on earth. This prophecy shows Bacon’s fear that dishonesty will become so common that it will weaken people’s morals and faith. For Bacon, the lack of faith is not just a loss of belief in God; it is a decline in human integrity and moral values, brought about by a culture that tolerates lies and dishonesty.

Through this discussion, Bacon makes it clear that lies are not just small, harmless deceptions; they are acts that show disrespect to God, lower a person’s honour, and have serious moral consequences for society. Lies, according to Bacon, can ultimately lead to the downfall of both individuals and society as a whole. He urges readers to recognise the high value of truth and to avoid the destructive path of dishonesty, which can lead to personal disgrace and even divine judgement.

Bacon’s essay Of Truth stands out for its literary merits, that shows his command of language, metaphor, and imagery. With a persuasive prose and well-crafted structure, Bacon urges readers to ponder on the foundational idea of truth and falsehood. Bacon’s language is simple and conversational. He has a remarkable skill of balancing philosophical inquiry with practical wisdom, and his references to classical thought and Christian theology add depth and authenticity to his arguments.

In present times, his essay is surprisingly relevant. Bacon’s insights into humanity’s tendency to evade truth in favour of comforting lies resonate strongly today, where misinformation often overshadows facts. His emphasis on the ethical and spiritual value of truth serves as a timely reminder of the importance of integrity, both personally and socially. Bacon’s essay encourages readers to strive for truth and honesty. He believes it is not only a moral responsibility but also a path to greater clarity and fulfilment. In a world increasingly shaped by media and competing narratives, Of Truth invites readers to value honesty and to approach truth as a guiding principle for a better society.

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