Skip to content

Answer a fool according to his folly lest he be wise in…

“Answer a fool according to his folly lest he be wise in his own conceit. Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou be like unto him. Choose one.” quote by Saul Bellow
Download Open image
““Answer a fool according to his folly lest he be wise in his own conceit. Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou be like unto him. Choose one.””

Saul Bellow

About This Quote

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

Advice to avoid mirroring a fool's behavior when responding, lest you adopt their folly.

In simple terms: Don't reply to a fool like a fool.

Key Takeaway

Respond wisely, not in kind.

Themes

wisdom communication self-control

Mood

thoughtful reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • debates
  • online arguments
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics rhetoric

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should you ignore a fool?
  • How can you stay true to your values?
A Different Perspective

Matching a fool's logic can trap you in their mindset.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Saul Bellow

Explore all 464 Saul Bellow quotes

More Fool quotes

Browse all 5,535 Fool quotes