“Discretion of speech is more than eloquence, and to speak agreeably to him with whom we deal is more than to speak in good words, or in good order.”
- January 22, 1561 – April 9, 1626
- Born in England
- Philosopher, theologian, jurist, politician, aristocrat
- Proposed the “inductive method” that laid the foundations of modern science, and influenced later generations as the founder of British empiricism
Quote
“Discretion of speech is more than eloquence, and to speak agreeably to him with whom we deal is more than to speak in good words, or in good order.”
Explanation
In this quote, Francis Bacon emphasizes the importance of judgment and tact in communication, suggesting that the discretion or careful choice of words is far more valuable than sheer eloquence or the technical mastery of language. Bacon argues that the key to effective communication lies in the ability to speak appropriately and adaptively to the audience or situation at hand. It is not enough to speak beautifully or in well-ordered phrases if the message does not resonate with or suit the person you are addressing. The true art of speaking, according to Bacon, lies in the ability to understand the listener’s needs, feelings, and perspective, and to speak in a way that is both respectful and relevant.
Bacon’s view reflects the Renaissance interest in rhetoric and human interaction, where the power of speech was understood not just in terms of its technical skills, but in its ability to foster understanding and rapport. The period saw a great focus on mastering eloquence as a way to influence and persuade, but Bacon cautions that this should not come at the cost of being sensitive to the context in which one speaks.
In modern times, this quote resonates with contemporary ideas of effective communication and emotional intelligence. Whether in business, politics, or personal relationships, we now recognize that speaking with discretion, being able to tailor communication to the listener’s needs, and maintaining a sense of respect and empathy are crucial to successful interactions. While eloquence can be a powerful tool, it is the discretion and the ability to connect with others on a deeper, more personal level that ultimately makes communication effective and meaningful. Bacon’s insight encourages us to value adaptability and understanding in speech, knowing that true communication goes beyond just the beauty of words to the quality of the connection it fosters.
