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Deals Quote by John Tillotson

“A little wit and a great deal of ill-nature will furnish a man for satire; but the greatest instance of wit is to commend well.” quote by John Tillotson
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“A little wit and a great deal of ill-nature will furnish a man for satire; but the greatest instance of wit is to commend well.”

John Tillotson

About This Quote

Wit alone is insufficient for satire; true wit shines when used to praise rather than mock.

In simple terms: Good satire praises, not just mocks.

Key Takeaway

Use wit to uplift, not merely to criticize.

Themes

satire wit morality

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political commentary
  • social media humor
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

rhetoric ethics literature

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance humor with constructive feedback?
  • When does satire become harmful?
A Different Perspective

Excessive praise can dilute critical insight.

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