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About this quote

What does it mean?
The way someone pronounced the letter R was seen as a sign of their sharp or critical wit.
In plain terms
A specific speech habit was linked to a person's wit.
What can you take from it?
Small habits can shape perceptions of character.

Where it applies

  • observing speech
  • studying behavior
  • reading biographies

Putting it to work

  • notice speech patterns
  • be cautious about judgments
  • study linguistic traits

Questions to consider

  • How much do habits reveal?
  • Are speech traits linked to personality?

Another view

Linking speech to character is subjective and not reliable.

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  3. Dr. Kettle was wont to say that Seneca writes as a Boare does pisse, scilicet by jirkes.

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