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About this quote

What does it mean?
Silence occurred because there was too much to express and no words could capture it.
In plain terms
We stayed quiet because we had too much to say and no words for it.
What can you take from it?
Some things are too big for language.

Where it applies

  • heavy moments
  • emotional overload
  • deep conversation

Putting it to work

  • accept silence
  • respect limits of language
  • listen deeply

Questions to consider

  • When does silence speak loudest?
  • What can words not say?

Another view

Silence might also come from fear rather than too much to say.

More from William Saroyan

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