How is this? Ought not the petitioner to speak first, and the conqueror to listen in silence?
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker suggests that the petitioner should speak first while the conqueror should listen silently.
- In plain terms
- Petitioners ought to speak first; conquerors should listen.
- What can you take from it?
- Let the less powerful voice be heard before the dominant one responds.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is it appropriate for the powerful to speak first?
- How does silence affect power balance?
Another view
In some contexts, the conqueror may need to speak first to set terms.
More from Lucius Cornelius Sulla
I forgive the many for the sake of the few, the living for the dead.
Permalink to quote #2 No friend ever served me, and no enemy ever wronged me, whom I have not repaid in full.
Permalink to quote #3 No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy.
Permalink to quote #4
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