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America and americans Quote by Wallace Stevens

“There is truth in the reply of a great lawyer when asked how the lawyers who formed the United States Constitution had such a mastery of legal principles: Why, they had so few books” quote by Wallace Stevens
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“There is truth in the reply of a great lawyer when asked how the lawyers who formed the United States Constitution had such a mastery of legal principles: Why, they had so few books”

Wallace Stevens

About This Quote

Source Speech: Interview with The New York Times, 1945

Great lawyers excel because they rely on deep reasoning rather than extensive reading, showing mastery through understanding, not volume.

In simple terms: Lawyers succeed by thinking, not just reading.

Key Takeaway

Focus on deep comprehension over quantity.

Themes

law reasoning expertise

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

advisory educational

When to use this quote

  • courtroom
  • academic study
  • policy drafting
  • legal education

Key Concepts

critical thinking legal mastery

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance study with experience?
  • What sources beyond books shape your expertise?
A Different Perspective

Relying solely on books can limit practical insight.

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