A Frenchman must be always talking, whether he knows anything of the matter or not; an Englishman is content to say nothing, when he has nothing to say.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Johnson contrasts French and English communication styles, noting the French feel compelled to speak constantly while the English are comfortable with silence.
- In plain terms
- French people feel they must always talk, but English people are fine saying nothing.
- What can you take from it?
- Cultural norms dictate how much people feel obliged to speak.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Which style do you prefer?
- How does culture affect your speech?
Another view
Not all members of a culture conform to these stereotypes.
More from Samuel Johnson
If you are idle, be not solitary; if you are solitary, be not idle.
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Permalink to quote #175
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