Skip to content

Drawbacks Quote by Joseph Epstein

“One serious drawback about letters is that, in order to get them, one must send some out. When it comes to the mail, I feel it is better to receive than to give.” quote by Joseph Epstein
Download Open image
“One serious drawback about letters is that, in order to get them, one must send some out. When it comes to the mail, I feel it is better to receive than to give.”

Joseph Epstein

About This Quote

Source Essay: “The Letter Paradox,” The American Scholar, 1998

Receiving letters feels easier than sending them, highlighting a reluctance to initiate communication.

In simple terms: People prefer receiving letters over sending them.

Key Takeaway

Initiate communication more often.

Themes

communication loneliness effort social anxiety

Mood

contemplative analytical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • friendship
  • business networking
  • family updates
  • pen pals

Key Concepts

psychology social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we avoid reaching out?
  • What benefits arise from sending more letters?
A Different Perspective

Modern digital media changes the dynamic.

4.0 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Joseph Epstein

Explore all 66 Joseph Epstein quotes

More Drawbacks quotes

Browse all 112 Drawbacks quotes