"In one case out of a hundred a point is excessively discussed because it is obscure; in the ninety-nine remaining it is obscure because it is excessively discussed"
About this Quote
Edgar Allan Poe's declaration, "In one case out of a hundred a point is excessively talked about due to the fact that it is obscure; in the ninety-nine remaining it is obscure due to the fact that it is excessively talked about", highlights a crucial observation about the nature of discourse and the paradox of interaction.
At its core, the quote speaks to the idea that the act of over-discussion can create obscurity rather than clarity. The very first part of the quote, "In one case out of a hundred a point is exceedingly discussed since it is unknown", recommends that often, discussions come from an authentic requirement to unload an intricate concern. In these uncommon instances, excessive discussion is required because the subject is inherently challenging to comprehend. Such conversations aim to demystify and uncover truths.
Nevertheless, Poe's main point depends on the latter part of the declaration: "in the ninety-nine staying it is unknown because it is excessively discussed". Here, Poe presumes that generally, excessive conversation and analysis can obfuscate rather than illuminate a topic. When a topic is constantly disputed, dissected, and theorized without reaching an agreement or clarity, the discussion can become a foggy maze of viewpoints and conflicting interpretations, making the subject less understandable. This phenomenon recommends that excessive analysis or dispute can present new layers of complexity, interruptions, or mistaken beliefs, which then cloud the original issue.
Poe's observation functions as a caution versus the potential risks of over-analysis. It invites readers to think about the efficiency and purpose of conversations: Are they driven by a real desire for understanding, or have they end up being a circular workout in intellectual vanity? The declaration can be viewed as a review of how discourse, particularly in intellectual or academic circles, might sometimes prioritize the act of conversation over real understanding or resolution.
In essence, Poe is promoting for a well balanced technique: acknowledging when conversations are required to unwind intricacy versus when they degenerate into excessive and counterproductive debate, ultimately serving to obscure instead of elucidate.