--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: I am also concerned not to come off as…" description: "\"“I am also concerned not to come off as shrill or preachy when what I really am is more like confused.”\" — David Foster Wallace" image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/fb1/david-foster-wallace-161_sanctimony_i-am-also-concerned-not-to-come-off-as-s_1563083.jpg" --- # I am also concerned not to come off as shrill or preachy… ![“I am also concerned not to come off as shrill or preachy when what I really am is more like confused.” quote by David Foster Wallace](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/fb1/david-foster-wallace-161_sanctimony_i-am-also-concerned-not-to-come-off-as-s_1563083.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/fb1/david-foster-wallace-161_sanctimony_i-am-also-concerned-not-to-come-off-as-s_1563083.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/fb1/david-foster-wallace-161_sanctimony_i-am-also-concerned-not-to-come-off-as-s_1563083.jpg) > ““I am also concerned not to come off as shrill or preachy when what I really am is more like confused.”” [David Foster Wallace](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/david-foster-wallace/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. He worries about sounding harsh while feeling internally confused. **In simple terms:** Worried about tone, feels confused. Key Takeaway Balance honesty with humility. Themes self‑awareness communication vulnerability Mood introspective anxious Type advice personal When to use this quote - public speaking - writing - personal relationships - conflict resolution Key Concepts authenticity self‑doubt tone management Questions to Reflect On - How can you convey confusion without sounding preachy? - What language softens a potentially shrill tone? A Different Perspective May still appear contradictory to listeners. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet ## Related quotes > [There are so many things that we have to be very concerned about. 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