No man was more foolish when he had not a pen in his hand, or more wise when he had.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Johnson implies that writing clarifies thought, making a person appear wiser when holding a pen than when merely talking.
- In plain terms
- People seem smarter when they are writing than when they are not.
- What can you take from it?
- Writing helps organize thoughts and display wisdom.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does writing make you think clearer?
- Do you trust spoken or written words more?
Another view
Some people are wise without writing.
More from Samuel Johnson
Greek, sir, is like lace; every man gets as much of it as he can.
Permalink to quote #178 The applause of a single human being is of great consequence.
Permalink to quote #180 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.
Permalink to quote #177
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