Comment Quote by John Scalzi
![“So let’s start with this first question here. [points to a microphone] "Question: This is more of a comment— "Answer: Sorry, no. This is not ‘comment and answer,’ it’s ‘question and answer.’ So unless you have a question, please give the mic over to the next person in line. "[Grumbles, leaves the…” quote by John Scalzi](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9da/john-scalzi-2071_comments_so-let-s-start-with-this-first-question_968002.jpg)
““So let’s start with this first question here. [points to a microphone] "Question: This is more of a comment— "Answer: Sorry, no. This is not ‘comment and answer,’ it’s ‘question and answer.’ So unless you have a question, please give the mic over to the next person in line. "[Grumbles, leaves the microphone; scattered applause]””
About This Quote
Source Panel: Q&A Session at Worldcon, 2015
A speaker stresses the importance of asking clear questions, rejecting vague comments, and maintaining orderly discourse.
In simple terms: Ask directly, avoid vague remarks.
Key Takeaway
Ask clear questions.
Themes
communication
clarity
public speaking
moderation
audience engagement
Mood
direct
assertive
formal
Type
instructional
procedural
When to use this quote
- conference
- live Q&A
- panel discussion
- mic handling
Key Concepts
rhetoric
dialogue
event management
Questions to Reflect On
- How can moderators balance order and spontaneity?
- What impact does audience participation have?
A Different Perspective
Strict rules can stifle spontaneous dialogue.
![“People love to talk--especially when the talking involves answering the questions of others--because it makes them feel wanted. [...] I had long ago discovered that the best way to obtain answers about anything was to walk up to the closest person and ask.” quote by Alan Bradley](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/cbe/alan-bradley-1571_long-ago_people-love-to-talk-especially-when-the_1761947.jpg)
