Adultery Quote by Hilary Mantel
““You once told me, when you visited my house, how Anne conducts herself with men: she says, “Yes, yes, yes, yes, no.”’ Wyatt nods; he recognises those words; he looks sorry he spoke them. ‘Now you may have to transpose one word of that testimony. Yes, yes, yes, no, yes.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel, 2009
The passage illustrates how a character manipulates language to control perception, highlighting the power of precise wording.
In simple terms: Words shape perception; careful phrasing matters.
Key Takeaway
Pay attention to how language frames reality.
Themes
communication
power
manipulation
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- negotiations
- legal testimony
- public speaking
- media interviews
Key Concepts
semantic control
political strategy
Questions to Reflect On
- What impact does a single word have on meaning?
- How can we guard against linguistic manipulation?
A Different Perspective
Over‑reliance on wording can obscure truth.
