Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson, Essays:

A man cannot speak but he judges himself. With his will or against his will he draws his portrait to the eye of his companions by every word. Every opinion reacts on him who utters it. It is a threadball thrown at a mark, but the other end remains on the thrower


A man cannot speak but he judges himself.  With his will or

Summary

This quote highlights the idea that one's words and opinions reflect their true nature and character, whether they intend to or not. It suggests that even if a person tries to hide or mask their intentions, their true self will inevitably be revealed through their speech. The quote also emphasizes that the effects of one's words do not only impact others, but also shape and define the individual themselves. It likens expressing opinions to throwing a ball of thread, where the person who throws it remains connected to it, symbolizing that they cannot completely separate themselves from the consequences of their words.

Topics

Opinion
By Ralph Waldo Emerson, Essays:
Liked the quote? Share it with your friends.

Random Quotations