Skip to content

Ears Quote by Jonathan Swift

“Walls have tongues, and hedges ears.” quote by Jonathan Swift
Download Open image
“Walls have tongues, and hedges ears.”

Jonathan Swift

About This Quote

Walls metaphorically speak while hedges listen, suggesting that structures convey messages and boundaries observe.

In simple terms: Walls speak, hedges listen.

Key Takeaway

Physical boundaries can communicate and observe.

Themes

satire metaphor communication privacy

Mood

witty critical

Type

satirical aphorical

When to use this quote

  • urban planning
  • privacy design
  • social commentary

Key Concepts

sociolinguistics symbolism

Practical Applications

  • consider how architecture influences interaction
  • use design to convey messages

Questions to Reflect On

  • What messages do our built environments send?
  • How can design be used to listen or speak?
A Different Perspective

May be taken literally by some.

3.2 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Jonathan Swift

Explore all 535 Jonathan Swift quotes

More Ears quotes

Browse all 2,987 Ears quotes