Oyster Quote by Robert Greene
““Oysters open completely when the moon is full; and when the crab sees one it throws a piece of stone or seaweed into it and the oyster cannot close again so that it serves the crab for meat. Such is the fate of him who opens his mouth too much and thereby puts himself at the mercy of the listener. Leonardo da Vinci, 1452-1519””
About This Quote
Source Letter: Personal Reflections, 1498
Speaking too much makes one vulnerable, as the listener can exploit the openness.
In simple terms: Talk too much, become vulnerable.
Key Takeaway
Practice restraint in speech.
Themes
communication
vulnerability
trust
Mood
cautious
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- negotiations
- relationship building
Key Concepts
psychology
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it wise to speak openly?
- How can you protect yourself while communicating?
A Different Perspective
Silence may hinder necessary dialogue.
![“Those who are in love with practice without knowledge are like the sailor who gets into a ship without rudder or compass and who never can be certain [where] he is going. Practice must always be founded on sound theory. —The Discourse on Painting by Leonardo da Vinci” quote by Iggy Fernandez](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ed6/iggy-fernandez-243527_knowledge_those-who-are-in-love-with-practice-with_144498.jpg)
