Writing Quote by Plato
““You know, Phaedrus, writing shares a strange feature with painting. The offsprings of painting stand there as if they are alive, but if anyone asks them anything, they remain most solemnly silent. The same is true of written words. You'd think they were speaking as if they had some understanding, but if you question anything that has been said because you want to learn more, it continues to signify just that very same thing forever. When it has once been written down, every discourse rolls about everywhere, reaching indiscriminately those with understanding no less than those who have no business with it, and it doesn't know to whom it should speak and to whom it should not. And when it is faulted and attacked unfairly, it always needs its father's support; alone, it can neither defend itself nor come to its own support. [275d-e]””
About This Quote
Source Dialogue: Phaedrus, Plato, c. 380 BC
Written words appear alive but remain silent when questioned, spreading indiscriminately and needing authorial defense against criticism.
In simple terms: Words seem alive yet stay silent, spreading widely and needing protection.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of text; seek dialogue.
Themes
communication
interpretation
authority
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- academic study
- creative writing
- public discourse
- media criticism
Key Concepts
philosophy
literature
semiotics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does silence affect meaning?
- When should we challenge texts?
A Different Perspective
Words cannot defend themselves; they rely on author authority.
