Gossip isn't scandal and it's not merely malicious. It's chatter about the human race by lovers of the same. Gossip is the tool of the poet, the shop-talk of the scientist, and the consolation of the housewife, wit, tycoon and intellectual. It begins in the nursery and ends when speech is past.

Summary

This quote highlights the multifaceted nature of gossip, challenging common negative perceptions. It suggests that gossip goes beyond being scandalous or malicious; rather, it is a form of communication and connection between individuals who share a love for understanding human nature. The quote recognizes that gossip serves different purposes for different people - it can inspire artistic expression in poets, facilitate discussions among scientists, provide comfort for housewives, serve as a form of entertainment for wits and intellectuals, and ultimately, contribute to the fabric of human communication from infancy until old age.

Topics