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A lawyer is basically a mouth, like a shark is a mouth…

“A lawyer is basically a mouth, like a shark is a mouth attached to a long gut. The business of lawyers is to talk, to interrupt one another, and to devour each other if possible.” quote by Joyce Carol Oates
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““A lawyer is basically a mouth, like a shark is a mouth attached to a long gut. The business of lawyers is to talk, to interrupt one another, and to devour each other if possible.””

Joyce Carol Oates

About This Quote

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

Lawyers are portrayed as voracious talkers, constantly interrupting and devouring each other.

In simple terms: Lawyers talk a lot and compete fiercely.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the confrontational nature of legal discourse.

Themes

law communication competition

Mood

critical analytical

Type

observational critical

When to use this quote

  • courtroom
  • corporate law
  • media debates
  • political negotiations

Key Concepts

rhetoric power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you see this behavior in your own field?
  • How can dialogue be made more constructive?
A Different Perspective

Not all lawyers fit this stereotype; many practice collaboratively.

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