When you are trying to impress people with words, the more you say, the more common you appear, and the less in control. Even if you are saying something banal, it will seem original if you make it vague, open-ended, and sphinxlike.
Interpretation
Less can be more when communicating; being vague can make common ideas seem original.
This quote emphasizes that verbosity can diminish the impact of one's words, making the speaker appear less credible and more ordinary. It suggests that a well-crafted, enigmatic statement can convey even mundane ideas in a way that captivates and engages the audience, highlighting the power of subtlety in communication.
In practice
A motivational speaker may use this quote to illustrate the importance of powerful, concise language during presentations.
In a society where the roles everyone plays are obvious, the refusal to conform to any standard will excite interest. Be both masculine and feminine, impudent and charming, subtle and outrageous. Let other people worry about being socially acceptable; those types are a dime a dozen, and you are after a power greater than they can imagine.
The moment people feel they know what to expect from you, your spell on them is broken. More: You have ceded them power.
The future belongs to those who learn more skills and combine them in creative ways.
The Nihilistic Troll might pretend to be acting in the service of some cause or leader, but don't be fooled. The cause and their supposedly strong convictions are simply a way to justify and provide cover for their abusive behavior.
Only create associations with positive affinities. Make this a rule of life and you will benefit more than from all the therapy in the world.
Remember that the essence of authority is that people willingly follow your lead.
From the errors of others, a wise man corrects his own.
People live through such pain only once. Pain comes againβbut it finds a tougher surface.
When I was growing up, my mother, who had been through a lot of terrible things in life, taught me that when life is tough your instinct is to close your heart. But if you can accept what happened and reach out to someone, there will always be someone less fortunate, or someone that can bring a solution and help your life.
Desperate times breed desperate measures
Thinking should become your capital asset, no matter whatever ups and downs you come across in your life.
We frequently find that the influence of good women is underrated. It is an influence that is often subtle but yet has tremendous consequences. One woman can make a great difference for a whole nation.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.