Meaning: The quote "Never ask a bore a question" by Mason Cooley is a concise and insightful piece of advice that carries a deeper meaning about human interaction and communication. Mason Cooley, an American aphorist known for his witty and thought-provoking observations, often captured the complexities of human behavior and relationships in his quotes. In this particular quote, Cooley highlights the idea of avoiding unproductive or tedious conversations by refraining from engaging with individuals who may not contribute meaningfully to a discussion.

The term "bore" in this context refers to a person who tends to be dull, uninteresting, or long-winded in conversation. Cooley's advice suggests that asking a bore a question could lead to a tedious or unfulfilling exchange, as the individual may not offer engaging or stimulating responses. By advising against questioning a bore, Cooley encourages individuals to be discerning in their interactions and to seek out meaningful and enriching conversations.

The quote also reflects the value of time and energy in social interactions. Engaging with a bore can be draining and unproductive, as their responses may not contribute positively to the conversation. Cooley's advice serves as a reminder to prioritize meaningful communication and to avoid investing time and effort in interactions that are unlikely to be rewarding.

Furthermore, the quote can be interpreted as a call for discernment and active engagement in conversations. Rather than passively enduring tedious exchanges, Cooley's advice implies the importance of actively choosing whom to converse with and seeking out individuals who can contribute to meaningful and engaging discussions. By avoiding asking a bore a question, one can focus on connecting with individuals who offer valuable insights, stimulating dialogue, and genuine engagement.

In a broader sense, the quote also underscores the significance of effective communication. It encourages individuals to be mindful of how they invest their attention and efforts in conversations, emphasizing the importance of seeking out meaningful and enriching interactions. Cooley's succinct aphorism serves as a reminder to approach communication with thoughtful consideration and an awareness of the value of meaningful exchanges.

In conclusion, Mason Cooley's quote "Never ask a bore a question" offers a valuable insight into the dynamics of human interaction and communication. It encourages individuals to be discerning in their conversations, prioritize meaningful exchanges, and invest their time and energy in engaging interactions. By avoiding unproductive exchanges with individuals who may not contribute meaningfully to a discussion, Cooley's advice promotes the cultivation of enriching and rewarding communication.