Quote by Henry David Thoreau
I am sorry to think that you do not get a man's most effective criticism until you provoke him. Severe truth is expressed with some bitterness.
Summary
This quote suggests that it takes provocation to bring out the most critical and truthful opinions from someone. The speaker acknowledges that conveying harsh or severe truths often leads to bitterness. Essentially, the quote implies that individuals may not openly express their honest views and criticisms unless they are pushed to a point of frustration or annoyance. These inner sentiments, expressed with a tinge of bitterness, are believed to convey the most candid and valuable critique.