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I will begin to speak, when I have that to say which had not better be unsaid.
Cato The Younger
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Interpretation

What this quote means

One should speak thoughtfully, ensuring their words are meaningful and necessary.

This quote emphasizes the importance of considering the value of one's words before speaking. It encourages individuals to reflect on whether what they want to say adds value to the conversation, suggesting that sometimes it is better to remain silent than to share thoughts that may not contribute positively or meaningfully.

Themes

WisdomCommunicationThoughtfulnessSilenceMeaning

In practice

Example use cases

During a public speaking event to highlight the importance of thoughtful communication.

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I would not be beholden to a tyrant, for his acts of tyranny. For it is but usurpation in him to save, as their rightful lord, the lives of men over whom he has no title to reign.
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