The Most Beautiful Curves On A Woman's Body Are Her Smile

By Sumit Paul, New Age Islam

22 November 2025

Today, November 22, is prominent French author and Nobel laureate Andre Gide's birth anniversary. While I've read him mostly in French, the English translations of his works are also excellent. Two of his quotes have always fascinated me:

"A brave heart and a courteous tongue. They shall carry thee far through the jungle, Manling"  AND " The most beautiful curves on a woman's body are her smile."

Let's discuss the first one. Andre Gide's quote, "A brave heart and a courteous tongue. They shall carry thee far through the jungle, Manling," encapsulates the essence of navigating life's challenges with resilience and grace. A brave heart symbolizes the courage it takes to face difficulties head-on, to push past fear and uncertainty. It is a reminder to be bold, embrace risks, and venture into uncharted territories. Coupled with a courteous tongue, embodying kindness, empathy, and respect towards others, this quote highlights the importance of maintaining strong interpersonal relationships. By combining bravery and politeness, one can effectively navigate the metaphorical jungle that is life, forging meaningful connections and achieving success. This powerful message encourages us to uplift and support each other while fearlessly pursuing our dreams and aspirations.

 The English adage, 'A courteous tongue takes you places' is very apt. They say in Persian,  “Har Chi Begardad Gul Mirizad” (wherever it turns, flowers fall). This poetic expression suggests that kindness and good deeds leave a trail of beauty and positivity wherever they go or "Shirin Zabani Shah Zani Ast” (Sweet speech is the crown of women). It means, politeness and eloquence are key virtues, particularly for effective communication. While polite and courteous language is expected of women as we say, pretty, petite and polite, it doesn't mean that men can get away with a discourteous tongue and uncouth language. Politeness is expected of both; irrespective of one's gender. 

And the second one is my favourite as the feminine beauty appeals to my senses and warms the cockles of my heart: The most beautiful curves on a woman's body are her smile. This apt quote beautifully captures the essence of femininity and attractiveness. While society often fixates on physical attributes such as body proportions, Gide encourages us to appreciate the genuine warmth and joy evoked by a woman's smile. A woman's smile has the power to light up a room, radiating confidence, kindness, and inner beauty. It transcends physical appearances, reaching into the depths of one's soul. Gide's quote serves as a reminder that true beauty lies not in perfect curves or superficial features, but in the genuine happiness that emanates from within a woman. Urfi Shirazi says, " Her body was wavy, but her smile was even more (wavy)." Urfi came to Akbar's court from Shiraz in Iran. Firaq said the same, albeit in his own inimitable manner, "Jamaal Tera Aur Badh Jaata Hai/ Sharma Ke Tu Jab Hans Deta Hai " (Your beauty enhances when you smile bashfully). Though in Urdu poetry, we use the Muzakkar (masculine) even for a female and Muannas (feminine) is not used so frequently for a woman/female, it's said that this couplet was meant for a good-looking and slightly effeminate boy who later became a versatile actor. That said, like politeness, a smile is expected of both men as well as women because a smile enhances one's personality and appearance. Kisi Ko Muskura Ke Khoobsoorat Maut Na Dena/ Qasam Hai Zindagi Ki, Zindagi Ko Kaun Poochhega (Don't give a beautiful death to someone with your breath-taking smile/ I swear by life that no one will care for it (life). Yes, a beautiful woman's beatific smile is an icing on the cake. So, Har Ja Ke Hasti, Roohe Anja Bash (Rumi)  " Wherever you stand, be the soul of that place. " This can be interpreted as bringing light and happiness, similar to the effect of a beautiful smile.

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A regular columnist for New Age Islam, Sumit Paul is a researcher in comparative religions, with special reference to Islam. He has contributed articles to the world's premier publications in several languages including Persian

URL:  https://www.newageislam.com/spiritual-meditations/beautiful-curves-woman-smile/d/137736

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