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About this quote

What does it mean?
A well‑chosen collection of anecdotes and maxims is a valuable treasure for a worldly person, useful for fitting conversation and recalling at appropriate moments.
In plain terms
Anecdotes and maxims are useful conversational tools for the experienced.
What can you take from it?
Gather and use short stories to enrich dialogue.

Where it applies

  • networking events
  • teaching sessions

Putting it to work

  • collect memorable stories
  • practice timing of remarks

Questions to consider

  • Do you have go‑to anecdotes?
  • When is a maxim most effective?

Another view

Over‑reliance on quotes can make one seem inauthentic.

More from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

  1. Everything that emancipates the spirit without giving us control over ourselves is harmful.

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  2. A man can stand anything except a succession of ordinary days.

    Permalink to quote #97
  3. Of all peoples the Greeks have dreamt the dream of life best.

    Permalink to quote #94

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