. . . the weal of the race, and the cause of humanity, here and now, are enough To give life meaning and death as well.
Edgar Lee MastersRead
The tongue may be an unruly member-- But silence poisons the soul.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Speaking without thought can cause harm, but remaining silent can be equally damaging.
This quote reflects on the dual nature of communication; while speaking without restraint can lead to conflict and disorder, choosing to remain silent can prevent necessary expression and lead to a toxic internal state. It highlights the importance of finding a balance in communication, where both speaking and silence have their respective virtues and consequences.
Themes
CommunicationSilenceExpressionThoughtSoul
In practice
Example use cases
In a public speaking workshop, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of mindful communication.
More from Edgar Lee Masters
All quotes →To this generation I would say: Memorize some bit of verse of truth or beauty.
Edgar Lee MastersRead
Genius is a bend in the creek where bright water has gathered, and which mirrors the trees, the sky and the banks. It just does that because it is there and the scenery is there. Talent is a fine mirror with a silver frame, with the name of the owner engraved on the back.
Edgar Lee MastersRead
To love is to find your own soul Through the soul of the beloved one.
Edgar Lee MastersRead
To put meaning in one's life may end in madness, But life without meaning is the torture Of restlessness and vague desire-It is a boat longing for the sea and yet afraid.
Edgar Lee MastersRead
And I never started to plow in my life That some one did not stop in the road And take me away to a dance or picnic. I ended up with forty acres; I ended up with a broken fiddle— And a broken laugh, and a thousand memories, And not a single regret.
Edgar Lee MastersRead
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