You may tell a man thou art a fiend, but not your nose wants blowing; to him alone who can bear a thing of that kind, you may tell all.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Only share harsh truths with those capable of handling criticism without taking offense.
- In plain terms
- Tell hard truths only to people who can handle them.
- What can you take from it?
- Be selective about who hears your critical feedback.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who can handle your honest feedback?
- Are you withholding truth to protect feelings?
Another view
Even tough people may react poorly to certain types of criticism.
More from Johann Kaspar Lavater
Who in the same given time can produce more than others has vigor; who can produce more and better, has talents; who can produce what none else can, has genius.
Permalink to quote #1 Say not you know another entirely, till you have divided an inheritance with him.
Permalink to quote #3 Have you ever seen a pedant with a warm heart?
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