Art Quote by Learned Hand
“The public official must pick his way nicely, must learn to placate though not to yield too much, to have the art of honeyed words but not to seem neutral, and above all to keep constantly audible, visible, likable, even kissable.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks on Public Service, 1935
A public official should be persuasive and friendly without compromising integrity, balancing diplomacy with honesty.
In simple terms: Officials need charm but must stay truthful.
Key Takeaway
Speak kindly, stay visible, keep integrity.
Themes
politics
communication
ethics
leadership
Mood
cautious
reflective
critical
Type
advice
observational
When to use this quote
- campaign speeches
- press conferences
- community meetings
- media interviews
Key Concepts
public relations
rhetoric
integrity
balancing act
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance charm with honesty?
- When does diplomacy become deception?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on likability can erode trust.
