Behind every successful man is a woman, behind her is his wife.
Groucho MarxRead
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
Interpretation
What this quote means
Striving to outdo others hinders genuine conversation and listening.
Groucho Marx reflects on the detrimental effects of competing to outshine others in conversation. He suggests that this competitive attitude disrupts meaningful communication, as the focus shifts from understanding and connecting with others to simply trying to impress or dominate the dialogue. By letting go of the need to 'top' every story, one can engage more authentically and listen more effectively, enriching interpersonal interactions.
Themes
CommunicationListeningConversationConnectionUnderstanding
In practice
Example use cases
In a workshop on effective communication, you might use this quote to illustrate the importance of listening.
More from Groucho Marx
All quotes →John you say you met in an elevator. Was the elevator going up at the time, or down? This is very important, for going down in an elevator one always has that sinking feeling and for all I know you may have this confused with love. If you were going up, it is clearly a case of love at first sight.
Groucho MarxRead
Firefly: Where is your husband? Mrs. Teasdale: Why, he's dead. Firefly: I'll bet he's just using that as an excuse. Mrs. Teasdale: I was with him to the very end. Firefly: Hmmph. No wonder he passed away. Mrs. Teasdale: I held him in my arms and kissed him. Firefly: Oh I see. Then, it was murder.
Groucho MarxRead
Chico: "Here's the book, it's a dollar" Groucho: "Here's a ten, and shoot the change." Chico: "I don't have change I'd have to give you nine more books.
Groucho MarxRead
Gentlemen, Chicolini here may talk like an idiot, and look like an idiot, but don't let that fool you: he really is an idiot. I implore you, send him back to his father and brothers, who are waiting for him with open arms in the penitentiary. I suggest that we give him ten years in Leavenworth, or eleven years in Twelveworth.
Groucho MarxRead
Die, my dear? Why that's the last thing I'll do!
Groucho MarxRead
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The first rule of my speaking is: listen!
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If I do three interviews in a day, I can be exhausted, because the process of hearing everyone requires that I empty out myself. While I'm listening, my own judgments and prejudices certainly come up. But I know I won't get anything unless I get those things out of the way.
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