“When a woman is talking to you, listen to what she says with her eyes.”
- February 26, 1802 – May 22, 1885
- Born in France
- Author, poet, playwright
- Written novels and poems such as “Les Miserables” and “Notre-Dame de Paris,” he was a representative figure of French Romantic literature and had a worldwide influence.
Quote
“When a woman is talking to you, listen to what she says with her eyes.”
Explanation
In this quote, Victor Hugo emphasizes the importance of non-verbal communication and the deeper layers of meaning that can be conveyed through body language, particularly through a woman’s eyes. While words are important, Hugo suggests that the true message in any conversation, especially with a woman, is often found in the expressions and emotions reflected in her eyes. The eyes can reveal feelings, intentions, and truths that words alone may not express. By paying attention to these unspoken cues, one can understand a person’s feelings or thoughts in a more intimate and authentic way.
Hugo’s words suggest that communication is not just about the literal words spoken, but also about the emotional context in which they are delivered. This perspective encourages a more attuned and empathetic approach to relationships, where one listens not just with the ears, but with the heart and the mind, paying attention to the subtle signals that come from eye contact, facial expressions, and body posture.
In modern terms, this quote speaks to the idea that effective communication goes beyond words and involves being fully present and aware of the non-verbal signals that a person sends. It encourages us to be more attuned to others, especially in our personal relationships, by recognizing the deeper meanings behind gestures, expressions, and eye contact, which can often reveal more than spoken words alone.