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And if I am further pressed to declare straightforwardly…

“And if I am further pressed to declare straightforwardly whether I mean to disparage these authorities [who criticize Ibsen], I reply, pointedly, that I do. I affirm that such criticisms are written by men who know as much of political life as I know of navigation.” quote by George Bernard Shaw
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““And if I am further pressed to declare straightforwardly whether I mean to disparage these authorities [who criticize Ibsen], I reply, pointedly, that I do. I affirm that such criticisms are written by men who know as much of political life as I know of navigation.””

George Bernard Shaw

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The author admits he despises critics, comparing their limited political insight to his own nautical knowledge.

In simple terms: He criticizes critics for shallow understanding.

Key Takeaway

Question the expertise of those who judge you.

Themes

criticism expertise politics

Mood

analytical defensive

Type

satirical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • public debate
  • media criticism
  • artistic reception

Key Concepts

literature satire

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you value criticism that challenges you?
  • When is it wise to dismiss critics?
A Different Perspective

Criticism can also be constructive.

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