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Destroy Quote by Horace

“What you have not published, you can destroy. The word once sent forth can never be recalled.” quote by Horace
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““What you have not published, you can destroy. The word once sent forth can never be recalled.””

Horace

About This Quote

Source Poetry: Odes, Book I, 23 BC

Unpublished words can cause lasting harm; once spoken, they cannot be taken back.

In simple terms: Words once released cannot be undone

Key Takeaway

Think before you speak or publish

Themes

ethics communication responsibility

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • social media posts
  • public statements
  • private letters

Key Concepts

Irreversibility of speech impact of rumors

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would you say differently now?
  • When is silence wiser than speech?
A Different Perspective

May underestimate the power of silence

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