I avoid talking before the youth of the age as I would dancing before them: for if one's tongue don't move in the steps of the day, and thinks to please by its old graces, it is only an object of ridicule.

Summary

This quote suggests that the speaker avoids speaking or expressing their ideas in the presence of young people because they believe that if their thoughts or words do not align with the current attitudes and trends, they will be seen as outdated and therefore mocked. The speaker draws a parallel between speaking out of tune with the times and dancing out of sync, emphasizing the importance of staying relevant and connecting with the youth by adapting to their language and cultural preferences.

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