Meaning: The quote "A statesman who keeps his ear permanently glued to the ground will have neither elegance of posture nor flexibility of movement" by Abba Eban, a renowned diplomat, encapsulates a profound insight into the nature of leadership and decision-making. In this quote, Eban is suggesting that a leader who is constantly preoccupied with the minutiae of public opinion or popular sentiment may lack the ability to maintain a dignified and principled stance, and may also struggle to adapt to changing circumstances.

Eban's use of the term "glued to the ground" conjures up an image of someone who is overly fixated on the immediate and transient concerns of the present, rather than maintaining a broader and more forward-looking perspective. The metaphor of "elegance of posture" and "flexibility of movement" further emphasizes the idea that effective statesmanship requires a delicate balance between being attuned to the needs and concerns of the people, while also possessing the grace and agility to navigate complex and dynamic political landscapes.

One interpretation of Eban's quote is that a statesman must be able to rise above the noise and distractions of public opinion in order to make decisions based on sound principles and long-term vision. This suggests that a leader who is overly swayed by popular sentiment may struggle to maintain a consistent and coherent posture, lacking the poise and conviction necessary to inspire confidence and trust in their leadership.

At the same time, the reference to "flexibility of movement" implies that a leader must also possess the agility and adaptability to respond to changing circumstances and unexpected challenges. This flexibility allows a statesman to adjust their course of action without losing sight of their fundamental values and objectives. It is a reminder that effective leadership requires not only a firm grounding in principles but also the capacity to navigate the complexities of real-world politics with grace and dexterity.

Abba Eban, the author of this quote, was an Israeli diplomat and politician who served as Israel's ambassador to the United Nations and the United States, as well as its Foreign Minister. His extensive experience in international relations and diplomacy lends weight to his insights on statesmanship and leadership. Eban's career was marked by his ability to navigate complex geopolitical challenges while upholding the values and interests of his country, making his reflections on leadership particularly relevant and valuable.

In conclusion, Abba Eban's quote serves as a powerful reminder of the delicate balance that leaders must strike between being responsive to the needs of their constituents and maintaining the integrity and vision necessary to lead effectively. By urging statesmen to avoid being "glued to the ground," Eban highlights the importance of maintaining a principled and forward-looking approach to leadership, while also emphasizing the need for adaptability and nimbleness in the face of changing circumstances. This quote continues to resonate as a timeless reflection on the challenges and responsibilities of leadership in the realm of politics and diplomacy.