Jean de la Bruyere Conversation Quotations

The great gift of conversation lies less in displaying it ourselves than in drawing it out of others. He who leaves your company pleased with himself and his own cleverness is perfectly well pleased with you.

Avoid making yourself the subject of conversation.

The true spirit of conversation consists more in bringing out the cleverness of others than in showing a great deal of it yourself.

Amongst such as out of cunning hear all and talk little, be sure to talk less; or if you must talk, say little.

The great charm of conversation consists less in the display of one's own wit and intelligence than in the power to draw forth the resources of others.