I suffer from cacoethes loquendi, a mania or itch for talking, and from vanity . . . and morbidity, and, as is obvious to everyone who knows me, an inborn, an inveterate flair for histrionics. ... I am pachydermatous. ... I am a veritable peripatetic bifurcated volcano on behalf of Democratic principles.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker admits to excessive talking, vanity, and theatricality in favor of democratic values.
- In plain terms
- He admits to loving to talk and performing for democratic principles.
- What can you take from it?
- Acknowledge personal traits like vanity and speech habits openly.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What traits do you admit to openly?
- Does self awareness improve your influence?
Another view
Honesty about flaws does not always mitigate their negative impact.
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