On Conversation (1782) [ Concepts ]
… Though nature weigh our talents, and dispense To every man his modicum of sense, And Conversation in its better part May be esteem'd a gift, and not an art, Yet much depends, as in the tiller's toil, On culture, and the sowing of the soil. Words learn'd by rote a parrot … gives opinion strength, Divert the champions prodigal of breath, And put the peaceably disposed to death. O thwart me not, Sir Soph, at every turn, Nor carp at every flaw you may discern; Though syllogisms hang not on my tongue, I …
Conversation | Crime
Anthology