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That's why Priscus is wisest of all: silence cannot be…

“That's why Priscus is wisest of all: silence cannot be judged. Silence masks all things or no thing. Only Priscus can tell us what his silence conceals, but since he won't, we suspect him great.” quote by Gore Vidal
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““That's why Priscus is wisest of all: silence cannot be judged. Silence masks all things or no thing. Only Priscus can tell us what his silence conceals, but since he won't, we suspect him great.””

Gore Vidal

About This Quote

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

Silence is inscrutable; it hides truth, and only the silent can reveal its secrets, though they may choose not to.

In simple terms: Silence conceals truth.

Key Takeaway

Respect the power of silence.

Themes

philosophy communication secrecy wisdom

Mood

thoughtful enigmatic

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • interpersonal relations
  • political discourse
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

epistemology rhetoric

Practical Applications

  • consider what is left unsaid

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does silence reveal about intent?
  • When is speaking preferable?
A Different Perspective

Silence can also be a tool for manipulation.

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