Marcus Tullius Cicero: 'Great is our admiration of the orator who speaks with fluency and discretion.'

Great is our admiration of the orator who speaks with fluency and discretion.

In his quote, "Great is our admiration of the orator who speaks with fluency and discretion," Marcus Tullius Cicero, a renowned Roman philosopher, emphasizes the significance of eloquence and tact in the art of oratory. Summarizing the meaning of this quote in a straightforward manner, Cicero suggests that individuals who possess the ability to speak smoothly and judiciously are highly esteemed by society. This admiration stems from the recognition of the refined skill required to communicate effectively, while considering the appropriate time, place, and manner of speaking. While this interpretation encapsulates the core essence of Cicero's quote, it is intriguing to explore an unexpected philosophical concept that could further expand our understanding of the significance of fluency and discretion in public speaking.Among the myriad philosophical concepts, the existential perspective offers a lens through which we can gain deeper insights into Cicero's quote. Existentialism, as a branch of philosophy that focuses on human existence and the search for meaning, prompts us to contemplate how fluency and discretion in oratory align with existentialist principles. Existentialists argue that individuals are responsible for creating their own meaning in a chaotic and indifferent universe. Taking this perspective into consideration, a skilled orator who speaks fluently and discreetly effectively crafts their message, lending structure and coherence to their words, thereby creating meaning and impact within their audience.To delve further into the connection between existentialism and the art of oratory, let us compare and contrast the two concepts. At its core, existentialism encourages individuals to embrace freedom and authenticity in their lives, promoting the idea that personal choices and actions shape one's existence. An orator who speaks with fluency and discretion embodies these values by utilizing their freedom to express themselves genuinely and meaningfully. The ability to navigate language and rhetoric with finesse allows the orator to connect with their audience on a deeper level, influencing their thoughts and emotions. This capacity to shape perceptions and inspire action showcases the orator's commitment to the authenticity of their message and the desire to influence positive change.On the flip side, the orator's role in balancing fluency and discretion also aligns with the existentialist principle of responsibility. Existentialism postulates that individuals shoulder the responsibility for their choices and the consequences that arise from these decisions. In the context of public speaking, an orator who lacks discretion may inadvertently cause harm or provoke undesirable outcomes. By carefully selecting their words and being mindful of the potential impact on various stakeholders, the orator takes on the burden of responsibility associated with their role. Their fluency and discretion become essential tools for navigating complex situations while managing the potential for unintended consequences.In conclusion, Cicero's quote highlights the admiration that society holds for orators who possess the qualities of fluency and discretion. However, by adopting an unexpected philosophical concept such as existentialism, we gain a fresh perspective on the importance of eloquence and tact in public speaking. From an existentialist standpoint, an orator who speaks with fluency and discretion becomes a conduit for meaning and authenticity. Furthermore, the orator's careful consideration of their words and their responsibility in communicating effectively resonate with the principles of existentialism. By exploring this additional layer of analysis, we can appreciate the profound impact of the art of oratory and its connection to fundamental concepts of human existence.