“Give thy thoughts no tongue.”
- April 26, 1564 – April 23, 1616
- Born in England
- Playwright, poet, actor
- Wrote many masterpieces such as “Hamlet,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “Macbeth,” and had a great influence on English literature
Quote
“Give thy thoughts no tongue.”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s Hamlet advises restraint and self-control when it comes to expressing one’s thoughts, particularly in situations where it may be wiser to remain silent. “Give thy thoughts no tongue” means that one should not immediately speak whatever comes to mind, especially when it is not appropriate or beneficial to do so. The phrase suggests the importance of discretion and the idea that some thoughts are best kept to oneself rather than voiced publicly or in a moment of emotion. It reflects the wisdom of being thoughtful and deliberate in choosing when and how to express one’s internal musings.
In modern contexts, this quote speaks to the value of thoughtfulness and emotional intelligence. It can apply to moments when it’s better to pause and consider the consequences of speaking before offering an opinion or making a statement, particularly in sensitive or high-stakes situations. For example, when faced with a difficult conversation, sometimes remaining silent or carefully choosing words can avoid unnecessary conflict or misunderstanding. It emphasizes that not everything needs to be said, and patience or self-restraint can often lead to better outcomes.
Ultimately, this quote underscores the idea that silence can be a powerful tool and that speaking without consideration can lead to regret or missteps. It encourages self-awareness and mindfulness in communication, promoting the idea that wisdom lies not only in what we choose to say, but in knowing when it is better to remain quiet.
