As for the clergy - No - If I say a word against them, I'll be shot. - I have no desire, - and besides, if I had, - I durst not for my soul touch upon the subject, - with such weak nerves and spirits, and in the condition I am in at present, 'twould be as much as my life was worth, to deject and contrist myself with so bad and melancholy an account, - and therefore, 'tis safer to draw a curtain across, and hasten from it, as fast as I can, to the main and principal point I have undertaken to clear up, - and that is, How it comes to pass, that your men of least wit are reported to be men of most judgment.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Avoids criticizing the clergy due to fear, shifting focus to another topic.
- In plain terms
- Too scared to criticize religious leaders.
- What can you take from it?
- Recognize when fear silences critique.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is silence safe?
- What risks come with speaking out?
Another view
Silence may enable bad behavior.
More from Laurence Sterne
Of all the cants which are canted in this canting world, - though the cant of hypocrites may be the worst, - the cant of criticism is the most tormenting!
Permalink to quote #18 I have got him fast hung up, quoth Didius to himself, upon one of the two horns of my dilemma - let him get off as he can.
Permalink to quote #20 Our armies swore terribly in Flanders, cried my uncle Toby, - but nothing to this. - For my own part, I could not have a heart to curse my dog so.
Permalink to quote #17
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