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The wise speak only of what they know, Grima son of…

“The wise speak only of what they know, Grima son of Galmod. A witless worm have you become. Therefore be silent, and keep your forked tongue behind your teeth. I have not passed through fire and death to bandy crooked words with a serving-man till th.” quote by JRR Tolkien
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“The wise speak only of what they know, Grima son of Galmod. A witless worm have you become. Therefore be silent, and keep your forked tongue behind your teeth. I have not passed through fire and death to bandy crooked words with a serving-man till th.”

JRR Tolkien

About This Quote

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

Only speak what you truly understand; avoid deceitful or empty words.

In simple terms: Speak only what you know; keep false speech away.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate honesty and restraint in speech.

Themes

honesty wisdom communication self‑control

Mood

thoughtful cautionary reflective

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • debates
  • teaching
  • leadership
  • personal reflections

Key Concepts

ethics linguistics

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should you speak despite uncertainty?
  • How does silence affect trust?
A Different Perspective

Silence can be misinterpreted as weakness; balance is needed.

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