Arguing Quote by Oliver Goldsmith
“In arguing too, the parson own'd his skill, For e'en though vanquish'd he could argue still; While words of learned length and thundering sound Amaz'd the gazing rustics rang'd around; And still they gaz'd, and still the wonder grew That one small head could carry all he knew.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: The Traveller, 1764
A learned speaker impresses simple folk with his knowledge, even when defeated, showing the power of eloquence.
In simple terms: Eloquent speakers awe audiences despite setbacks.
Key Takeaway
Value clear, persuasive communication.
Themes
communication
knowledge
influence
humility
education
Mood
admiring
thoughtful
critical
Type
literary
inspirational
When to use this quote
- public debates
- teaching
- leadership
- media presentations
Key Concepts
rhetoric
public speaking
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does style affect perception of truth?
- When does persuasion become manipulation?
A Different Perspective
Even great eloquence can mask lack of substance.
![“[T]here are depths of thousands of miles which are hidden from our inquiry. The only tidings we have from those unfathomable regions are by means of volcanoes, those burning mountains that seem to discharge their materials from the lowest abysses of the earth.” quote by Oliver Goldsmith](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b7d/oliver-goldsmith-772_abyss_t-here-are-depths-of-thousands-of-miles_88121.jpg)
