On Being Misunderstood
The Art of Conversational Caution, Scotch Restraint, and the Eloquence of Silence
Caution is the operative word
If one wishes to be heard
And not have one’s speech soundly blurred
Or have one’s meaning quickly slurred
By people with whom one converses
While sitting quietly on our ‘erses
And eating cakes and drinking tea
This makes for pleasing company.
A word or two quietly said
With care and taste will reach the head
The brainbox of the other party
So mind and say naught that is clarty,
Especially when engaged in drink
For that can alter the way we think
And drinking, that which doth ferment
Can quickly lead to argument.
In conclusion may I say
That silence is the proper way
To pass the message properly
The less you speak, the more you say.
The Shady River Bard Creative Ecosystem
Trevor Swistchew's poetry and philosophical essays are published in fellowship with The Shady River Bard—exploring a 26-album concept discography, working permaculture, and reflections on human purpose.