Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
Alexander PopeRead
Words are like Leaves; and where they most abound, Much Fruit of Sense beneath is rarely found.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Words can be plentiful but often lack substance and deeper meaning.
This quote by Alexander Pope suggests that while many words may be spoken or written, they do not always convey significant thoughts or ideas. It highlights the idea that sheer quantity of words does not equate to quality of communication, and true understanding often lies beneath the surface, obscured by irrelevant or excessive language.
Themes
WordsSubstanceCommunicationMeaningQuality
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about effective communication, I might reference this quote to emphasize the importance of clarity over verbosity.
More from Alexander Pope
All quotes →What dire offence from am'rous causes springs, What mighty contests rise from trivial things.
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Fair tresses man's imperial race ensnare; And beauty draws us with a single hair.
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An honest man's the noblest work of God.
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One thought of thee puts all the pomp to flight;_x000D_ _x000D_ Priests, tapers, temples, swim before my sight.
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Who breaks a butterfly on a wheel?
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