'Tis an old maxim in the schools, That flattery's the food of fools; Yet now and then your men of wit Will condescend to take a bit.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Swift notes that while flattery is traditionally said to be food for fools, even clever people will accept flattery occasionally.
- In plain terms
- Even smart people sometimes enjoy flattery despite it being for fools.
- What can you take from it?
- Everyone is vulnerable to flattery regardless of intelligence.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do smart people enjoy flattery?
- How can you spot when flattery works on you?
Another view
Not everyone accepts flattery equally regardless of intelligence.
More from Jonathan Swift
But nothing is so hard for those who abound in riches, as to conceive how others can be in want.
Permalink to quote #15 Proper words in proper places, make the true definition of a style.
Permalink to quote #17 :one enemy can do more hurt, than ten friends can do good.
Permalink to quote #14
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