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He who has provoked the lash of wit, cannot complain that he smarts from it.
James Boswell
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Interpretation

What this quote means

If you challenge someone to a witty exchange, you should not be upset by the consequences.

This quote highlights the idea that engaging in clever banter or humorous repartee comes with risks; if you provoke someone to respond with wit, you must be prepared to endure the sharpness of their reply. It suggests a playful understanding of the nature of wit, emphasizing that those who enter into such exchanges should accept the potential repercussions that come from their own provocation.

Themes

WitHumorProvocationConsequencesBanter

In practice

Example use cases

Use this quote at a comedy roast to emphasize that humor can be a double-edged sword.

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A companion loves some agreeable qualities which a man may possess, but a friend loves the man himself.
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