Can do Quote by Harold MacMillan
“A Foreign Secretaryand this applies also to a prospective Foreign Secretaryis always faced with this cruel dilemma. Nothing he can say can do very much good, and almost anything he may say may do a great deal of harm. Anything he says that is not obvious is dangerous; whatever is not trite is risky. He is forever poised between the cliche and the indiscretion.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Foreign Policy Address, 1965
A foreign secretary must balance speaking plainly with avoiding risky, non‑cliché statements, as any deviation can cause harm.
In simple terms: Choosing words carefully is crucial; both blandness and boldness carry risks.
Key Takeaway
Speak wisely, avoid unnecessary risk.
Themes
politics
communication
risk management
Mood
cautious
strategic
Type
advice
reflective
When to use this quote
- government briefings
- media interviews
- policy announcements
- international negotiations
Key Concepts
diplomacy
public discourse
strategic messaging
Questions to Reflect On
- When should a leader break a cliché for honesty?
- How can one mitigate the danger of non‑obvious statements?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on caution may lead to empty, ineffective communication.
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