I speak and speak, [...] but the listener retains only the…
![“I speak and speak, [...] but the listener retains only the words he is expecting. [...] It is not the voice that commands the story: it is the ear.” quote by Marco Polo](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/aa5/marco-polo-31767_command_i-speak-and-speak-but-the-listener-retai_663831.jpg)
“I speak and speak, [...] but the listener retains only the words he is expecting. [...] It is not the voice that commands the story: it is the ear.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Listeners only hear what they expect, so expectations shape perception of messages.
In simple terms: We hear what we expect.
Key Takeaway
Consider your expectations before listening.
Themes
communication
perception
expectations
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- teaching
- public speaking
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
active listening
Questions to Reflect On
- How do your expectations filter what you hear?
- Can you practice neutral listening?
A Different Perspective
If expectations are wrong, meaning is lost.