Be cautious Quote by Roger Ebert
![“[Alan Berg's] memory haunts many people, even those who never heard him on the radio, because his death could be read as a message: Be cautious, be prudent, be bland, never push anybody, never say what you really think, offer yourself as a hostage to the weirdos even before they make the first…” quote by Roger Ebert](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c57/roger-ebert-655_be-cautious_alan-berg-s-memory-haunts-many-people-ev_2593474.jpg)
“[Alan Berg's] memory haunts many people, even those who never heard him on the radio, because his death could be read as a message: Be cautious, be prudent, be bland, never push anybody, never say what you really think, offer yourself as a hostage to the weirdos even before they make the first move. These days, a lot of people are opposed to the newfound popularity of 'trash television,' and no doubt they are right, and the hosts of these shows are shameless controversy-mongers. But at least they are not intimidated. Of what use is freedom of speech to those who fear to offend?”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Film Criticism, 1995
The memory of a bold voice warns against conformity and sensationalist media, urging thoughtful speech.
In simple terms: Remember bold voices to resist bland conformity.
Key Takeaway
Speak truth despite fear.
Themes
media
speech
conformity
courage
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- journalism
- public discourse
- media criticism
Key Concepts
hostage metaphor
trash television
free speech
Questions to Reflect On
- How to balance free speech and offense?
- What role do media play in shaping boldness?
A Different Perspective
Bold speech can be censored.
![“Gene [Siskel] often mentioned something François Truffaut once told him: the most beautiful sight in a movie theater is to walk down to the front, turn around, and look at the light from the screen reflected on the upturned faces of the members of the audience.” quote by Roger Ebert](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2d8/roger-ebert-655_audience_gene-siskel-often-mentioned-something-fr_61356.jpg)
