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About this quote

What does it mean?
Kings often struggle to speak normally when surrounded by people.
In plain terms
Being a king makes it hard to talk freely to others.
What can you take from it?
Status can inhibit natural human communication.

Where it applies

  • leading teams
  • public speaking
  • management

Putting it to work

  • breaking down barriers
  • listening to others

Questions to consider

  • Does power isolate people?
  • How can leaders connect more genuinely?

Another view

Leaders can communicate effectively if they choose to.

More from Terry Pratchett

  1. Anyway, just because you're sworn enemies doesn't mean you can't be friends, does it?

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  2. 'I can't have your subjects throwing my family over the balcony, that would never do.' 'Good,' said Snibril. 'I'll do it myself.'

    Permalink to quote #61
  3. I wish that the people who sing about the deeds of heroes would think about the people who have to clear up after them.

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