Quote#Wisdom
If you would have a right to account of things from illiterate…
Quote byJames Burgh · 1714–1775
Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: The Dignity of Human Nature (1754).
English (original)
If you would have a right to account of things from illiterate people, let them tell their story in their own way; if you put them upon talking according to logical rules, you will confound them.
— James Burgh
More from James Burgh
Do not endeavour to shine in all companies. Leave room for your hearers to imagine something within you beyond all you have said. And remember, the more you are praised, the more you will be envied.
Praise your friends, and let your friends praise you.
If you mean to make your side of the argument appear plausible, do not prejudice the people against what you think truth by your passionate manner of defending it.
He who knows the world will not be too bashful. He who knows himself will not be impudent.
Insult not another for his want of a talent you possess: He may have others which you want.
If you give a jest, take one. Let all your jokes be truly jokes. Jesting sometimes ends in sad earnest.