Being able to speak allows man to be a logical being, capable of both
reasoning and expression. He uses speech to convey his ideas and emotions or,
to put it more simply, to form speech logic. It is widely acknowledged that
speech is the myth that guides us to the depths of human life and that it
reflects the entire psycho-spiritual universe of man.
The phrase “laconizein esti philosophein” from the Ancient Greeks
describes a philosophical attitude and outlook on life as communicating
succinctly and thoroughly. Being able to communicate clearly and succinctly
demonstrates intellectual development, proficiency in the language, as well as
substance and frugalness in both thought and behavior.
The Ancient Spartans invented the short, to-the-point discourse, which
became ingrained in their general, uncomplicated manner of life.
Brevity stems from the individual’s need to express himself precisely,
avoid exaggerations, and presuppose skill and thoughtfulness. Simple and
concise expression facilitates communication and therefore improves the quality
of human relationships. It gives weight to words, turns them into content, and
therefore promotes thought, making communication more clear, meaningful, and
honest.
On the contrary, extensive and chatty speech often hides the truth and does
not help people to meet, as in the case of demagogues and plagiarists. For the
same reason, impressive figures of speech and rhetorical expressions are mainly
used. Many words hide traps.
Brevity is pure speech without unpleasant surprises and false promises. So,
her role is educational. It is no coincidence, after all, that the wisdom of
individuals and peoples is crystallized in epigrams, and even what the human
memory selectively preserves is expressed succinctly.
Georgios Ardavanis – 21/11/2023