Able Quote by Robert A. Heinlein
“It’s not enough to be able to lie with a straight face; anybody with enough gall to raise on a busted flush can do that. The first way to lie artistically is to tell the truth — but not all of it. The second way involves telling the truth, too, but is harder: Tell the exact truth and maybe all of it…but tell it so unconvincingly that your listener is sure you are lying.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Stranger in a Strange Land, Robert A. Heinlein, 1961
Lying can be artistic by presenting partial truth or delivering full truth in a way that seems deceptive.
In simple terms: Artful deception uses truth creatively.
Key Takeaway
Use truth strategically to influence perception.
Themes
deception
truth
communication
artistry
Mood
cynical
reflective
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- political speech
- advertising
- personal negotiations
- storytelling
- media criticism
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
literature
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you used partial truth to protect someone?
- How does presenting truth unconvincingly affect credibility?
A Different Perspective
Risk of eroding trust if overused.
