Be silent always when you doubt your sense; And speak…
““Be silent always when you doubt your sense; And speak, though sure, with seeming diffidence: Some positive, persisting fops we know, Who, if once wrong, will needs be always so; But you, with pleasure own your errors past, And make each day a critic on the last.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
One should doubt one’s own judgments and speak modestly, while embracing errors and constantly self‑criticizing.
In simple terms: Question yourself, speak modestly, learn from mistakes.
Key Takeaway
Stay humble and self‑critical.
Themes
humility
self‑improvement
confidence
criticism
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- writing
- public speaking
- decision making
Key Concepts
epistemic humility
self‑reflection
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance doubt with confidence?
- What habits help you learn from errors?
A Different Perspective
Over‑analysis can paralyze action.