Meaning: The quote "A wise man should so write (though in words understood by all men) that wise men only should be able to commend him" by Thomas Hobbes, the English philosopher, is a thought-provoking statement that delves into the concept of communication and the intended audience of a writer. This quote reflects Hobbes' belief in the importance of writing in a way that is accessible to all, while still containing depth and wisdom that only the discerning and knowledgeable can appreciate.

Hobbes was a significant figure in the history of philosophy, best known for his work on political theory and the social contract. His ideas had a profound impact on the development of Western philosophy and political thought. The quote in question is an expression of his views on the art of writing and the level of intellect it should embody.

The first part of the quote, "A wise man should so write (though in words understood by all men)," suggests that a wise person should be capable of expressing their thoughts in a manner that is comprehensible to everyone. This notion aligns with the idea of effective communication, emphasizing the importance of clarity and accessibility in written expression. Hobbes seems to be advocating for the use of language that is inclusive and easily understood by a wide audience, regardless of their level of knowledge or wisdom.

The second part of the quote, "that wise men only should be able to commend him," introduces a layer of complexity to Hobbes' statement. Here, he posits that although the language used should be universally understandable, the content and depth of the writing should be such that it can only be fully appreciated and praised by those who possess wisdom and discernment. This implies that there should be a depth and sophistication to the ideas presented, which may not be immediately apparent to all readers.

In essence, Hobbes is advocating for a writing style that is both accessible and profound. This dual nature of effective writing reflects his belief that the true mark of wisdom lies not only in the ability to communicate clearly with the masses but also in the capacity to convey deeper insights that resonate with the intellectually astute.

One interpretation of this quote is that it encourages writers to strive for a balance between simplicity and depth in their work. It suggests that the true measure of a writer's wisdom and skill lies in their ability to convey profound ideas in a manner that is universally understandable, yet still possesses layers of meaning that can be appreciated by those with a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Hobbes' quote also speaks to the idea of intellectual elitism, implying that only those who are wise and discerning should be able to fully appreciate and commend the work of a wise writer. This notion raises questions about the nature of wisdom, intelligence, and the discernment required to fully grasp the depth of written content.

In conclusion, Thomas Hobbes' quote encapsulates his views on the art of writing and the intended audience of a wise writer. It emphasizes the importance of clarity and accessibility in communication, while also highlighting the significance of depth and wisdom in the content being shared. This quote serves as a thought-provoking reflection on the nature of effective writing and the level of intellect it should embody.