If in argument we can make a man angry with us, we have drawn him from his vantage ground and overcome him

If in argument we can make a man angry with us, we have drawn him from his vantage ground and overcome him

Walter Savage Landor, a renowned English writer and poet, was known for his sharp wit and keen intellect. His quote, "If in argument we can make a man angry with us, we have drawn him from his vantage ground and overcome him," reflects his belief in the power of persuasion and the art of debate.

In the context of Landor's work, this quote can be interpreted as a strategic approach to winning an argument. By provoking an emotional response in the opponent, one can disrupt their logical thinking and force them to react impulsively. This can be seen as a way to gain the upper hand in a debate and ultimately emerge victorious.

Landor was a master of rhetoric and persuasion, and he understood the importance of using emotions to sway opinions. By making someone angry, he believed that one could destabilize their position and weaken their argument. This tactic can be seen as a form of psychological warfare, where the goal is to manipulate the opponent's emotions in order to gain an advantage.

However, it is important to note that Landor's quote should not be taken as an endorsement of manipulation or deceit. Rather, it can be seen as a reminder of the power of emotions in shaping our beliefs and actions. By understanding how emotions influence our thinking, we can become more aware of our own biases and prejudices, and learn to approach arguments with a more open mind.