Agony Quote by Hortense Calisher
“Speech isn't for agony.”
About This Quote
Source Quote: 1990s Literary Interview, The New Yorker
Suggests that speech should not be used to cause pain, implying communication ought to be constructive.
In simple terms: Words should heal, not hurt.
Key Takeaway
Speak kindly.
Themes
communication
empathy
ethics
language
conflict
Mood
thoughtful
ethical
inspirational
Type
communication
ethics
When to use this quote
- Negotiations
- teaching
- public speaking
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
Philosophy of language
psychology of speech
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we encourage compassionate dialogue?
- What role does intent play in harmful speech?
A Different Perspective
People may use speech to assert power despite good intentions.
![“[W]e must learn to accommodate ourselves to the discovery that some of those cunningly-fashioned instruments called human souls have only a very limited range of music, and will not vibrate in the least under a touch that fills others with tremulous rapture or quivering agony.” quote by George Eliot](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9be/george-eliot-84_agony_w-e-must-learn-to-accommodate-ourselves_12409.jpg)
