''Lord Chancellor, did I deliver the speech well ?' 'Very well indeed, sir,' was the enthusiastic answer. 'I am glad of that,' replied the king; 'for there was nothing in it.''
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The king praises a speech that was empty, implying that lack of substance is acceptable if delivered well.
- In plain terms
- The king liked a speech that said nothing.
- What can you take from it?
- Style can mask lack of content.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why value form over content?
- How can we detect empty speeches?
Another view
It may be a satirical comment on political rhetoric.
More from George III of the United Kingdom
'Six hours sleep are enough for a man, seven for a woman, and eight for a fool.'
Permalink to quote #2 'My Lords and peacocks.'
Permalink to quote #3 'Was there ever such thing as great Shakespeare? Only one must not say so! But what think you - what - was there not sad stuff?'
Permalink to quote #4
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