I have lived long enough in courts, old Amyas, without a…
““I have lived long enough in courts, old Amyas, without a murrain on you, to have found out, first, that it is not so easy to shame the devil; and secondly, that it is better to outwit him; and the only way to do that, sweet chuck, is very often not to speak your mind at all.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Outwitting evil often means restraint rather than confrontation.
In simple terms: Silence can defeat the devil.
Key Takeaway
Choose wisely when to speak.
Themes
strategy
wisdom
self‑control
Mood
cautious
thoughtful
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- negotiations
- conflict
- personal growth
Key Concepts
tactics
psychology
communication
Questions to Reflect On
- When is silence a strategic advantage?
- How do you know when to speak?
A Different Perspective
Silence may be misinterpreted as weakness.