"He who speaks evil only differs from his who does evil in that he lacks opportunity"
- Quintilian
About this Quote
This quote by Quintilian talks to the idea that those who speak ill of others are not much various from those who do evil. It recommends that the only difference between the two is that the former does not have the chance to act upon their destructive words. This implies that if provided the chance, those who speak ill of others would likely do the exact same.
The quote likewise implies that those who speak ill of others are not necessarily better than those who do wicked. It recommends that the only thing that separates the 2 is the opportunity to act on their words. This implies that those who speak ill of others should be held accountable for their words, as they might quickly develop into actions if given the chance.
The quote likewise speaks with the concept that words can be just as powerful as actions. It suggests that those who speak ill of others need to be taken seriously, as their words could quickly become actions if given the opportunity. This indicates that words ought to not be taken lightly, as they can have serious effects if acted upon.
Overall, this quote by Quintilian speaks with the concept that those who speak ill of others are not much various from those who do wicked. It suggests that the only difference between the 2 is the opportunity to act on their words, and that words must not be ignored as they can have severe consequences if acted on.
"The opportunity to create a small world between two pieces of cardboard, where time exists yet stands still, where people talk and I tell them what to say, is exciting and rewarding"
"Discourage litigation. Persuade your neighbors to compromise whenever you can. As a peacemaker the lawyer has superior opportunity of being a good man. There will still be business enough"
"The world is full of abundance and opportunity, but far too many people come to the fountain of life with a sieve instead of a tank car... a teaspoon instead of a steam shovel. They expect little and as a result they get little"