Meaning:
The quote "But far more numerous was the herd of such, Who think too little, and who talk too much" is from the poem "Essay on Criticism" by the English poet John Dryden. This line reflects a common observation about human behavior and communication, highlighting the prevalence of individuals who speak without much consideration or depth of thought.
In this line, Dryden is critiquing the tendency of many people to engage in excessive and often superficial conversation without taking the time to truly reflect on their words or ideas. The use of the word "herd" suggests a mass of individuals who exhibit this behavior, emphasizing the widespread nature of this tendency.
The first part of the quote, "Who think too little," suggests that many people do not engage in deep or critical thinking before expressing their opinions or ideas. This lack of thoughtful consideration can lead to shallow or ill-informed conversations that do not contribute much to meaningful discourse. It highlights the importance of thoughtful reflection and consideration before speaking, an idea that has been emphasized in various philosophical and literary works throughout history.
The second part of the quote, "and who talk too much," points to the prevalence of excessive speech without substance. This may refer to individuals who dominate conversations with their words, often without adding significant value or insight. It also suggests a lack of listening and receptiveness, as those who talk too much may not take the time to truly engage with the perspectives and ideas of others.
Overall, the quote serves as a commentary on the importance of balanced and thoughtful communication. It encourages individuals to engage in deeper reflection and consideration before speaking, and to recognize the value of meaningful and substantive conversation.
John Dryden, the author of the quote, was a prominent English poet, literary critic, and playwright who lived during the 17th century. He was known for his skillful use of language and his contributions to English literature. "Essay on Criticism" is one of his notable works, in which he explores various aspects of literary criticism and provides insights into the art of writing and evaluating literature.
Dryden's quote continues to resonate in modern times, as the prevalence of superficial communication and thoughtless speech remains a common concern. It serves as a reminder for individuals to strive for more thoughtful and meaningful interactions, emphasizing the importance of both critical thinking and effective communication.
In conclusion, the quote "But far more numerous was the herd of such, Who think too little, and who talk too much" by John Dryden reflects a timeless observation about human communication and behavior. It encourages individuals to engage in deeper reflection and more thoughtful conversation, highlighting the value of meaningful and substantive communication in both personal and intellectual contexts.