But all was false and hollow; though his tongue Dropp'd…
“But all was false and hollow; though his tongue Dropp'd manna, and could make the worse appear The better reason, 4 to perplex and dash Maturest counsels.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Deceptive words can make falsehood seem rational, confusing wise counsel.
In simple terms: Lies can appear logical and mislead.
Key Takeaway
Question the truth behind persuasive speech.
Themes
deception
reasoning
wisdom
Mood
cautionary
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political debate
- advertising
- personal manipulation
Key Concepts
rhetoric
philosophy
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards guard against clever falsehoods?
- How do we discern genuine reason?
A Different Perspective
Persuasion can be used for harmful ends.