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Never fear that: if he be so resolved, I can o'ersway him…

“Never fear that: if he be so resolved, I can o'ersway him; for he loves to hear That unicorns may be betray'd with trees, And bears with glasses,elephants with holes, Lions with toils and men with flatterers; But when I tell him he hates flatterers, He says he does, being then most flattered. Let…” quote by William Shakespeare
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““Never fear that: if he be so resolved, I can o'ersway him; for he loves to hear That unicorns may be betray'd with trees, And bears with glasses,elephants with holes, Lions with toils and men with flatterers; But when I tell him he hates flatterers, He says he does, being then most flattered. Let me work; For I can give his humour the true bent, And I will bring him to the Capitol.””

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

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

A mock‑serious speech mixes absurd imagery with political scheming, parodying rhetoric and flattery.

In simple terms: Satirical speech using nonsense to mock political manipulation.

Key Takeaway

Question the sincerity behind grandiose language.

Themes

politics satire language flattery

Mood

mocking critical

Type

satirical dramatic

When to use this quote

  • political debate
  • public speaking
  • campaign rhetoric

Key Concepts

rhetoric power dynamics absurdity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does flattery influence decisions?
  • When does rhetoric become empty?
A Different Perspective

The absurdity may obscure real issues.

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