I speak and speak, [...] but the listener retains only the words he is expecting. [...] It is not the voice that commands the story: it is the ear.
Interpretation
This quote highlights the importance of the listener's perception in understanding a message.
In this quote, Marco Polo emphasizes that effective communication isn't solely about the speaker's delivery but is equally dependent on the listener's expectations and interpretation. He suggests that the listener's preconceived notions dictate how the spoken words are received, indicating that true comprehension goes beyond mere sound to involve active engagement and openness to new ideas.
In practice
In a podcast discussion about effective communication.
I believe it was God's will that we should come back, so that men might know the things that are in the world, since, as we have said in the first chapter of this book, no other man, Christian or Saracen, Mongol or pagan, has explored so much of the world as Messer Marco, son of Messer Niccolo Polo, great and noble citizen of the city of Venice.
I did not write half of what I saw, for I knew I would not be believed
In communications, familiarity breeds apathy.
I like to listen. I have learned a great deal from listening carefully. Most people never listen.
If we were meant to talk more than listen, we would have two mouths and one ear.
Years ago, I tried to top everybody, but I don't anymore. I realized it was killing conversation. When you're always trying for a topper you aren't really listening. It ruins communication
A good conversationalist is not one who remembers what was said, but says what someone wants to remember.
Persuasive communication involves enthusiasm, animation, audience participation, authenticity and spontaneity.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.