That’s why you get in shit,” Hylas said. “You and Nick…
““That’s why you get in shit,” Hylas said. “You and Nick both. You’re too goddamned pragmatic about everything and so, you carry blithely on and walk right into the crocodile’s mouth.” “There is nothing blithe about myself or Nick,” Tobias said. “We are not cheerful people, though I am not an unhappy person. Nick doesn’t seem to be either. Furthermore, since when have you ever known me to get into shit, as you so inelegantly put it?” “Hey, asshole, don’t criticize my parlance,” Hylas said. “I know words. I’m just not so prim that I refuse to use the dirty ones. I like the dirty ones best.” “Oh and how,” Tobias said. Cursing did not offend him, he just seldom ever did so himself. “And another thing,” Hylas carried on, ignoring Tobias for the moment. “Blithe also means ‘thoughtlessly indifferent’. So there.” “Yes, you certainly told me what’s for,” Tobias said. “I am neither thoughtless nor indifferent, if I was then I would be terrible at being pragmatic. Your argument is therefore invalid. Rephrase or shut up.” “I love you, man,” Hylas said after a drawn-out silence. He positively beamed at Tobias. “You’re the only person who can argue words with me.” “I””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Pragmatic people may clash with others, leading to conflict; language and attitudes affect relationships.
In simple terms: Pragmatism can cause conflict; words matter.
Key Takeaway
Mindful speech and empathy.
Themes
Communication
Conflict
Pragmatism
Empathy
Mood
reflective
candid
Type
Unhappy person:0
Tobias Said:0
Told Tobias:0
Shit Hylas:0
Goddamned Pragmatic:0
Ignoring Tobias:0
When to use this quote
- Teamwork
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
Sociology
Psychology
Philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language shape conflict?
- Can pragmatism coexist with empathy?
A Different Perspective
Blithe attitudes may ignore nuance.