People only speak to get something. If I say, Let me tell…
“People only speak to get something. If I say, Let me tell you a few things about myself, already your defenses go up; you go, Look, I wonder what he wants from me, because no one ever speaks except to obtain an objective. That's the only reason anyone ever opens their mouth, onstage or offstage. They may use a language that seems revealing, but if so, it's just coincidence, because what they're trying to do is accomplish an objective.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People often communicate primarily to achieve personal goals, not to share authentically.
In simple terms: Speech is often self‑serving.
Key Takeaway
Seek genuine dialogue beyond ulterior motives.
Themes
communication
motivation
trust
Mood
skeptical
analytical
Type
cynical
observational
When to use this quote
- business meetings
- political debates
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
rhetoric
self‑interest
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you spoken without an agenda?
- How can you encourage authentic sharing?
A Different Perspective
Assuming all speech is manipulative can ignore sincere expression.