The literary gift is a very dangerous gift to possess if…
“The literary gift is a very dangerous gift to possess if you are not telling the truth, and I would a great deal rather, for my part, have a man stumble in his speech than to feel he was so exceedingly smooth that he had better be watched both day and night.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A literary talent can be dangerous if it hides truth; better to hear a stumbling speaker than a smooth deceiver.
In simple terms: Truth matters more than polished speech.
Key Takeaway
Value honesty over eloquence.
Themes
literature
truth
communication
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- writing
- media criticism
Key Concepts
authenticity
integrity
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you trusted a smooth speaker?
- How can we encourage honest expression?
A Different Perspective
Polished speech can still be truthful; not all smoothness is deceit.