Skip to content

Afar Quote by Honore de Balzac

“No hawk swooping down upon his prey, no stag improvising new detours by which to trick the huntsman, no dog scenting game from afar is comparable in speed to the celerity of a salesman when he gets wind a deal, to his skill in tripping up or forestalling a rival, and to the art with which he…” quote by Honore de Balzac
Download Open image
“No hawk swooping down upon his prey, no stag improvising new detours by which to trick the huntsman, no dog scenting game from afar is comparable in speed to the celerity of a salesman when he gets wind a deal, to his skill in tripping up or forestalling a rival, and to the art with which he sniffs out and discovers a possible sale.”

Honore de Balzac

About This Quote

Source Novel: Le Père Goriot, Honoré de Balzac, 1835

A salesman’s speed and cunning surpass even the swiftest animals in hunting.

In simple terms: Salesmen are extremely quick and clever.

Key Takeaway

Learn from the agility of successful negotiators.

Themes

business competition agility

Mood

analytical critical

Type

business motivational

When to use this quote

  • sales pitches
  • market negotiations
  • career advancement

Key Concepts

economics strategy psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What ethical lines might a fast‑moving salesperson cross?
  • How can one maintain integrity while being competitive?
A Different Perspective

Speed can compromise ethics or depth.

2.1 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Honore de Balzac

Explore all 793 Honore de Balzac quotes

More Afar quotes

Browse all 212 Afar quotes