Correctness Quote by Lydia Davis
““She knows she is right, but to say she is right is wrong, in this case. To be correct and say so is wrong, in certain cases. She may be correct, and she may say so, in certain cases. But if she insists too much, she becomes wrong, so wrong that even her correctness becomes wrong, by association. It is right to believe in what she thinks is right, but to say what she thinks is right is wrong, in certain cases. She is right to act on her beliefs, in her life. But she is wrong to report her right actions, in most cases. Then even her right actions become wrong, by association. If she praises herself, she may be correct in what she says, but her saying it is wrong, in most cases, and thus cancels it, or reverses it, so that although she was for a particular act deserving of praise, she is no longer in general deserving of praise.””
About This Quote
The quote explores the paradox of expressing correctness; overemphasis can invalidate the original truth.
In simple terms: Overstating correctness can make it seem wrong.
Key Takeaway
Balance confidence with humility.
Themes
truth
humility
communication
self-awareness
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
philosophical
advisory
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- public speaking
- leadership
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
paradox
self-censorship
social perception
Questions to Reflect On
- When does confidence become arrogance?
- How can one share truth without self-sabotage?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis may be seen as arrogance, undermining credibility.
![“I worked more intensively hour after hour when I was starting out [writing]. More laboriously. I'd say quantity is important as well as quality, and if you're not producing enough, make a schedule and stick to it.” quote by Lydia Davis](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/29b/lydia-davis-3244_after-hours_i-worked-more-intensively-hour-after-hou_171566.jpg)
