Meaning: The quote "He that will write well in any tongue, must follow this counsel of Aristotle, to speak as the common people do, to think as wise men do: and so should every man understand him, and the judgment of wise men allow him" by Roger Ascham encapsulates a timeless piece of advice for writers. The quote emphasizes the importance of clear and accessible communication, as well as the necessity of aligning one's thoughts with wisdom. Roger Ascham, a scholar and writer in the 16th century, understood the significance of writing in a manner that is both understandable to the common people and respected by the wise.

In this quote, Ascham references Aristotle, the ancient Greek philosopher whose works have had a profound influence on Western thought. By invoking Aristotle's counsel, Ascham emphasizes the enduring relevance of this advice. According to Aristotle, effective communication involves speaking in a way that is familiar to the common people and thinking in a manner that reflects wisdom and insight. This approach ensures that one's writing is both accessible and intellectually sound, resonating with a wide audience and earning the respect of knowledgeable individuals.

Ascham's emphasis on speaking "as the common people do" underscores the importance of clarity and simplicity in writing. By using language that is familiar and easily understood, writers can effectively convey their ideas to a broader audience. This aligns with the concept of audience awareness, which is a fundamental aspect of effective communication. Understanding and connecting with the intended audience is crucial for writers, and Ascham's advice serves as a reminder of this timeless principle.

Furthermore, Ascham's reference to thinking "as wise men do" highlights the significance of intellectual rigor and depth in writing. While accessibility is important, writers must also ensure that their ideas are rooted in wisdom and thoughtful consideration. This dual emphasis on clarity and wisdom reflects a balanced approach to writing, which seeks to engage both the general populace and the intellectual elite.

Ascham's assertion that "every man should understand him, and the judgment of wise men allow him" speaks to the universal appeal and intellectual integrity that underpin effective writing. A well-written piece should be accessible to all, regardless of their background or education, while also earning the respect and approval of those who possess wisdom and discernment. This dual standard reflects the aspiration of writers to reach a broad audience while maintaining the intellectual integrity of their work.

In a broader context, Ascham's quote serves as a reminder of the enduring principles of effective writing. Regardless of the time period or language in which one writes, the fundamental goal of clear, insightful, and widely resonant communication remains unchanged. Ascham's advice aligns with contemporary writing principles that emphasize the importance of audience awareness, clarity, and intellectual rigor.

In conclusion, Roger Ascham's quote encapsulates enduring advice for writers, drawing on the wisdom of Aristotle to emphasize the importance of speaking in a manner that is accessible to the common people and thinking in a way that reflects wisdom and insight. This timeless advice serves as a reminder of the enduring principles of effective writing, transcending time and language to offer guidance to writers across generations.