Tirukural

CHAPTER 65

Eloquence

641

Among a man’s many good possessions, none can equal having a good tongue.§

642

Prosperity and ruin issue from the power of the tongue. Therefore, guard yourself against thoughtless speech.§

643

The substance of artful speech holds friends spell-bound, and its eloquence enchants even enemies.§

644

Judge the nature of your listeners and speak accordingly. There is nothing more virtuous or valuable than this.§

645

Speak out your speech after ascertaining that no speech can be spoken to refute that speech.§

646

To speak so that listeners long to hear more and to listen so that others’ meaning is grasped are ideals of the impeccably great.§

647

In a war of words, none can defeat a persuasive man who never succumbs to fear or forgetfulness.§

648

Upon finding men whose forceful speech is couched in cogent and enchanting ways, the world swiftly gathers around.§

649

Unaware of the artful use of a few flawless words, men become enamored with excessive verbiage.§

650

Men who cannot communicate their knowledge to others resemble a bouquet of unfragrant flowers in full bloom.§