If I have said something to hurt a man once, I shall not…
“If I have said something to hurt a man once, I shall not get the better of this by saying many things to please him.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
If you hurt a man once, don’t try to please him with many words later.
In simple terms: Don’t compensate hurt with excessive flattery.
Speak sincerely, not manipulatively.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- conflict resolution
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What is the right balance of apology?
- How can we avoid insincere gestures?
Sincere apologies may be more effective.