Meaning: This quote by Marcus Pollio, also known as Marcus Vitruvius Pollio, reflects the importance of brevity and clarity in communication. Vitruvius was a Roman author, architect, and engineer who is best known for his multi-volume work, "De architectura," which translates to "On Architecture." In this work, Vitruvius covers a wide range of topics related to architecture, engineering, and urban planning, and his quote about being concise likely reflects his own writing style and approach to conveying complex ideas in a straightforward manner.

Vitruvius' emphasis on conciseness can be understood in the context of the time in which he lived. During the Roman era, there was a strong emphasis on public and private affairs, with citizens actively engaged in political, social, and economic activities. As a result, their leisure time was limited, and Vitruvius recognized the need for efficient and clear communication that would allow people to make the most of their precious moments of respite.

In the quote, Vitruvius expresses his inclination to be concise when communicating, recognizing that the citizens have limited leisure time. He understands the value of their leisure moments and aims to ensure that they can read and understand as much as possible within those brief periods. This reflects a deep respect for the readers' time and a desire to make the most impact with the limited time available to them.

Vitruvius' approach to communication can also be seen as a reflection of his broader philosophical and practical approach to architecture and engineering. In his writings, he emphasizes the importance of practicality, functionality, and efficiency in design and construction. This same mindset likely informs his approach to writing, where he seeks to convey information in a way that is practical and efficient for the reader.

The quote also speaks to the timeless value of brevity in communication. In today's fast-paced world, where individuals are constantly juggling various responsibilities and commitments, the ability to convey information concisely and clearly is more valuable than ever. Whether in written or spoken communication, the ability to be concise allows for more efficient transfer of knowledge and understanding.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the importance of understanding the audience and tailoring communication to their needs. Vitruvius recognizes that the citizens of his time have limited leisure moments, and he seeks to make the most of those moments by providing them with easily digestible and valuable information. This awareness of the audience's constraints and needs is a fundamental aspect of effective communication, and Vitruvius' quote serves as a reminder of the importance of considering the audience when crafting messages.

In conclusion, Marcus Vitruvius Pollio's quote about being concise in communication reflects his consideration for the limited leisure time of the citizens and his desire to make the most of that time by providing clear and valuable information. His emphasis on brevity aligns with his broader practical and efficient approach to architecture and engineering, and it serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of understanding the audience and respecting their time in communication.