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Communication Quote by Owen Feltham

“Every man should study conciseness in speaking; it is a sign of ignorance not to know that long speeches, though they may please the speaker, are the torture of the hearer.” quote by Owen Feltham
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“Every man should study conciseness in speaking; it is a sign of ignorance not to know that long speeches, though they may please the speaker, are the torture of the hearer.”

Owen Feltham

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Art of Conversation, 1655

Speaking concisely shows respect; long speeches please the speaker but burden listeners.

In simple terms: Short speech respects listeners.

Key Takeaway

Speak briefly, listen more.

Themes

communication respect efficiency

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • meetings
  • public speaking
  • teaching
  • negotiations

Key Concepts

rhetoric listener focus

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does brevity affect understanding?
  • When is detail necessary?
A Different Perspective

Over‑emphasis on brevity can omit nuance.

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