No, never say nothin' without you're compelled tu, An' then don't say nothin' thet you can be held tu.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Speak only when necessary and ensure your words are defensible.
- In plain terms
- Only speak if you must and say things you can stand by.
- What can you take from it?
- Think before you speak and be prepared to defend your words.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Have you said something you regret?
- When should you stay silent?
Another view
Silence can sometimes be more harmful than speaking.
More from James Russell Lowell
Our papers don't purtend to print on'y wut Guv'ment choose, An' thet insures us all to git the very best o' noose.
Permalink to quote #69 Things always seem fairer when we look back at them, and it is out of that inaccessible tower of the past that Longing leans and beckons.
Permalink to quote #71 The surest plan to make a Man Is, think him so.
Permalink to quote #68
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