As to answering though, said Sara, trying to console…
““As to answering though, said Sara, trying to console herself, I don't answer very often. I never answer when I can help it. When people are insulting you, there is nothing so good for them as not to say a word- just to look at them and THINK. Miss Minchin turns pale with rage when I do it, Miss Amelia looks frightened, and so do the girls. When you will not fly into a passion people know you are stronger than they are, because you are strong enough to hold in your rage, and they are not, and they say stupid things they wish they hadn't said afterward. There's nothing so strong as rage, except what makes you hold it in- that's stronger. It's a good thing not to answer your enemies.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Resisting provocation shows inner strength; silence can be a powerful response to insults.
In simple terms: Holding back anger shows strength.
Key Takeaway
Choose silence over retaliation.
Themes
self‑control
strength
communication
Mood
calm
assertive
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- conflict at work
- online harassment
- personal relationships
- bullying incidents
Key Concepts
emotional intelligence
self‑discipline
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you convey your stance without speaking?
- When is speaking more effective than silence?
A Different Perspective
Silence may be misinterpreted as weakness or may not resolve the underlying issue.