Cold approbation gave the ling'ring bays, For those who durst not censure, scarce could praise.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Critics often only give lukewarm praise because they fear harsh judgment.
- In plain terms
- People praise softly to avoid conflict.
- What can you take from it?
- Fear of criticism limits honest praise.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do you praise honestly?
- What stops you from critiquing?
Another view
Tact is sometimes better than bluntness.
More from Samuel Johnson
When learning's triumph o'er her barb'rous foes First reared the stage, immortal Shakespeare rose; Each change of many-colored life he drew, Exhausted worlds, …
Permalink to quote #30 Declamation roared, while Passion slept.
Permalink to quote #32 Ah! let not Censure term our fate our choice, The stage but echoes back the public's voice; The drama's laws the drama's patrons give, For we that live to plea…
Permalink to quote #33
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