Crows pick out the eyes of the dead, when the dead have no longer need of them; but flatterers mar the soul of the living, and her eyes they blind.
EpictetusRead
Keep silence for the most part, and speak only when you must, and then briefly.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Value silence and speak thoughtfully when necessary.
This quote by Epictetus emphasizes the importance of restraint in communication. It suggests that silence is often more beneficial than unnecessary chatter, and when one does speak, it should be done with purpose and brevity, reflecting a wise approach to dialogue and interactions.
Themes
SilenceCommunicationWisdomRestraintThoughtfulness
In practice
Example use cases
During a meeting, one might reference this quote to advocate for concise contributions.
More from Epictetus
All quotes βLearn to distinguish what you can and can't control. Within our control are our own opinions, aspirations, desires and the things that repel us. They are directly subject to our influence.
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Men are disturbed not by the things that happen, but by their opinion of the things that happen.
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Nothing truly stops you. Nothing truly holds you back. For your own will is always within your control. Sickness may challenge your body. But are you merely your body? Lameness may impede your legs. But you are not merely your legs. Your will is bigger than your legs. Your will needn't be affected by an incident unless you let it.
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The people have a right to the truth as they have a right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
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Practice yourself, for heaven's sake, in little things, and thence proceed to greater.
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Men of genius are far more abundant than is supposed. In fact, to appreciate thoroughly the work of what we call genius, is to possess all the genius by which the work was produced.
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Verily, we know not what an evil it is to indulge ourselves, and to make an idol of our will.
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