"Ignorant free speech often works against the speaker. That is one of several reasons why it must be given rein instead of suppressed"

In this quote, Anna Quindlen is highlighting the prospective consequences of oblivious totally free speech. She argues that although totally free speech is a basic right, it can in some cases backfire on the speaker. This could be due to the truth that their words may be offensive or harmful to others, resulting in negative effects for the speaker. However, Quindlen thinks that despite this threat, free speech ought to still be allowed to grow rather than being reduced. This is because reducing totally free speech can have much more destructive impacts, such as limiting the exchange of ideas and suppressing important conversations. Eventually, Quindlen highlights the value of accountable and thoughtful speech, rather than oblivious and harmful words.