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Blockhead Quote by Mary Astell

“For my part I think the Learned, and Unlearned Blockhead pretty equal; for 'tis all one to me, whether a Man talk Nonsense, or unintelligible Sense, I am diverted and edified alike by either; the one enjoys himself less, but suffers his Friends to do it more; the other enjoys himself and his own…” quote by Mary Astell
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“For my part I think the Learned, and Unlearned Blockhead pretty equal; for 'tis all one to me, whether a Man talk Nonsense, or unintelligible Sense, I am diverted and edified alike by either; the one enjoys himself less, but suffers his Friends to do it more; the other enjoys himself and his own Humour enough, but will let no body else do it in his Company.”

Mary Astell

About This Quote

Both learned and unlearned speakers provide entertainment and insight; the former may be less enjoyable but benefits friends, while the latter enjoys personal humor but excludes others.

In simple terms: All talk offers value, differently.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate diverse discourse.

Themes

communication humor social dynamics

Mood

contemplative lighthearted

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • public lectures
  • casual conversation
  • online forums

Key Concepts

literary criticism philosophy of language

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance personal enjoyment with audience inclusion?
  • When is nonsense valuable?
A Different Perspective

Some may find nonsense unproductive.

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