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By the time he got around to meaning it, the words had…

“By the time he got around to meaning it, the words had sounded fraudulent to him and he'd been afraid to pronounce them.” quote by Margaret Atwood
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““By the time he got around to meaning it, the words had sounded fraudulent to him and he'd been afraid to pronounce them.””

Margaret Atwood

About This Quote

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

He realizes the meaning of his words too late, feeling they have become insincere and frightening to utter.

In simple terms: Words lose truth when understood too late.

Key Takeaway

Speak honestly before doubt sets in.

Themes

communication authenticity self‑deception

Mood

reflective anxious

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • conflict resolution
  • writing
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

language psychology trust

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you ensure sincerity in your speech?
  • What fears arise when confronting your own words?
A Different Perspective

Words can become hollow if over‑analyzed.

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