Asceticism Quote by Michel de Montaigne
“Fie on the eloquence that leaves us craving itself, not things!”
About This Quote
The quote criticizes language that is self‑indulgent, valuing style over substance, and warns that such rhetoric leaves us yearning for more words rather than meaningful content.
In simple terms: Self‑referential eloquence starves substance.
Key Takeaway
Beware of style that feeds on itself.
Themes
self‑reference
rhetoric
substance over style
intellectual vanity
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
aphorism
critique
When to use this quote
- academic writing
- political speeches
- marketing copy
- literary criticism
Key Concepts
language
meaning
communication
Practical Applications
- editing for clarity
- teaching critical reading
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this affect your own writing?
- Can you spot examples in media?
