Clever Quote by Edward Bulwer-Lytton, 1st Baron Lytton
“The worst part of an eminent man's conversation is, nine times out of ten, to be found in that part by which he means to be clever.”
About This Quote
Source Play: The Lady of Lyons, 1838
Cleverness often masks emptiness, making conversation shallow and pretentious.
In simple terms: Clever talk can hide lack of substance.
Key Takeaway
Value substance over showy wit.
Themes
conversation
intelligence
pretentiousness
humility
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- Debates
- public speaking
- social gatherings
- writing critique
Key Concepts
verbal artistry
social dynamics
ego
communication
Questions to Reflect On
- When does wit enhance rather than diminish dialogue?
- How can we encourage genuine insight?
A Different Perspective
Clever remarks may still be meaningful.
![“There was another reason [she] took her books whenever they went away. They were her home when she was somewhere strange. They were familiar voices, friends that never quarreled with her, clever, powerful friends -- daring and knowledgeable, tried and tested adventurers who had traveled far and…” quote by Cornelia Funke](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/639/cornelia-funke-908_adventurer_there-was-another-reason-she-took-her-bo_3074.jpg)
