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IV Yes, I have a thousand tongues, And nine and…

“IV Yes, I have a thousand tongues, And nine and nighty-nine lie. Though I strive to use the one, It will make no melody at my will, But is dead in my mouth.” quote by Stephen Crane
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““IV Yes, I have a thousand tongues, And nine and nighty-nine lie. Though I strive to use the one, It will make no melody at my will, But is dead in my mouth.””

Stephen Crane

About This Quote

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

The speaker feels a tongue of lies that drowns any intended melody, leaving silence.

In simple terms: Lies silence true expression.

Key Takeaway

Seek honesty to speak clearly.

Themes

literature identity truth

Mood

melancholic introspective

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • creative writing
  • self‑reflection
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

tongues of lies inner silence

Questions to Reflect On

  • What truths are you struggling to voice?
  • How can you overcome internal silence?
A Different Perspective

Even honesty may be stifled by internal doubt.

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