it is not wise to keep the fire going under a slander…
“it is not wise to keep the fire going under a slander unless you can get some large advantage out of keeping it alive. Few slanders can stand the wear of silence.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Fueling a rumor only makes sense if it yields a clear benefit; otherwise silence is more powerful.
In simple terms: Avoid feeding false rumors unless profitable.
Key Takeaway
Stay silent to let rumors die.
Themes
ethics
communication
power dynamics
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- political campaigns
- workplace gossip
- media reporting
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
strategic silence
reputation management
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it better to confront a slander?
- How can you protect reputation without amplifying gossip?
A Different Perspective
Silence can also be misinterpreted as tacit approval.