Thomas Hobbes: 'A wise man should so write (though in words understood by all men) that wise men only should be able to commend him.'

A wise man should so write (though in words understood by all men) that wise men only should be able to commend him.

Thomas Hobbes, a renowned English philosopher, once said, "A wise man should so write (though in words understood by all men) that wise men only should be able to commend him." This thought-provoking quote encompasses the idea that a true intellectual should not only be able to articulate their ideas in a manner accessible to everyone, but also possess the profundity and depth that only fellow wise men can truly appreciate. It urges writers to strike a delicate balance between clarity and the ability to engage with a discerning audience.At first glance, this quote may seem to suggest a sense of exclusivity or intellectual elitism. After all, why should the appreciation of a wise man's writing be limited to only the wise? However, upon deeper contemplation, a different interpretation emerges - a reflection on the nuanced art of communication.To truly understand the underlying message, we must delve into the unexpected philosophical concept of linguistic relativity. This theory suggests that the language we use not only shapes our thoughts but influences our perception of the world. In other words, the words we choose to express our ideas can have a profound impact on how we are understood and perceived by others.Returning to Hobbes' quote, we can now comprehend its significance with newfound clarity. It encourages writers to avoid the pitfalls of overcomplicating their ideas with unnecessarily complex language. Instead, the challenge lies in employing words that can be comprehended by all, transcending barriers of knowledge and education. However, this does not mean diluting the content. Rather, it emphasizes the importance of maintaining depth and insight, ensuring that those who possess the wisdom to truly appreciate the author's intent are also engaged.In a world filled with information overload and attention scattered across various platforms, the ability to communicate effectively becomes all the more critical. A skilled writer, according to Hobbes, should possess the capacity to capture the attention of a wider audience, while simultaneously captivating the minds of the intellectual elite. This delicate balance can be likened to walking a tightrope, where too much complexity risks alienating the masses, and too much simplicity runs the risk of being dismissed by the wise.Thus, the quote by Thomas Hobbes serves as a reminder that the mark of a true literary virtuoso lies in their ability to bridge the gap between accessibility and profundity. While it is undoubtedly challenging to engage both novice and seasoned readers simultaneously, those who master this art are the ones whose words resonate across time.In our quest for knowledge and understanding, it is easy to become enamored with the obscure and complex. However, true brilliance lies in the ability to distill complex concepts into language accessible to all. This is not to say that all writing should cater exclusively to the masses; rather, it is a reminder that conveying profound ideas to a broader audience helps disseminate knowledge and ultimately enrich society.Hobbes' quote challenges both writers and readers alike to transcend the limitations of language. It urges writers to communicate their ideas with clarity, yet maintain the intellectual depth necessary to inspire admiration and understanding from fellow wise men. Meanwhile, readers are encouraged to continually expand their intellectual horizons by engaging with diverse forms of knowledge and appreciating the intricate craft of thoughtful writing.In conclusion, Thomas Hobbes implores us to strive for a harmonious synergy between accessibility and intellectuality in our writing. By attaining this delicate balance, we can ensure that our words resonate far beyond the realm of our immediate comprehension. So let us venture forth as writers and readers, seeking wisdom, embracing the challenge of bridging the gap between understanding and adoration, and nurturing a continuous cycle of intellectual growth for both ourselves and society at large.