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There was once a professor of law who said to his…

“There was once a professor of law who said to his students. When you are fighting a case, if you have facts on your side hammer them into the jury, and if you have the law on your side hammer it into the judge. But if you have neither the facts nor the law, asked one of his listeners? Then hammer…” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
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“There was once a professor of law who said to his students. When you are fighting a case, if you have facts on your side hammer them into the jury, and if you have the law on your side hammer it into the judge. But if you have neither the facts nor the law, asked one of his listeners? Then hammer the hell into the table, answered the professor.”

W. Somerset Maugham

About This Quote

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

When lacking evidence or legal authority, create dramatic impact to sway opinion.

In simple terms: Use drama when facts and law fail.

Key Takeaway

Leverage forceful presentation when lacking substance.

Themes

persuasion strategy communication

Mood

assertive strategic

Type

advice motivational

When to use this quote

  • courtroom
  • political debate
  • business negotiations
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

rhetoric psychology power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you ethically use emphasis without facts?
  • When is drama appropriate in argument?
A Different Perspective

Reliance on theatrics can backfire if perceived as manipulation.

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