You should avoid making yourself too clear even in your explanations

You should avoid making yourself too clear even in your explanations

In the realm of communication and persuasion, the idea of avoiding making oneself too clear in explanations is a concept that has been explored by many philosophers and thinkers throughout history. One such thinker who delved into this idea was the Spanish Jesuit Baltasar Gracian.

Gracian, known for his work "The Art of Worldly Wisdom," believed that there is power in ambiguity and subtlety in communication. He argued that by being too clear and direct in one's explanations, one can come across as too blunt or even arrogant. Instead, Gracian advocated for a more nuanced approach to communication, where one carefully crafts their words to leave room for interpretation and intrigue.

By avoiding making oneself too clear in explanations, Gracian believed that one could maintain an air of mystery and allure. This can be particularly useful in situations where one is trying to persuade or influence others. By leaving some things unsaid or open to interpretation, one can pique the curiosity of others and draw them in, making them more receptive to one's ideas.

Furthermore, Gracian believed that by being too clear in one's explanations, one can also make themselves vulnerable. When everything is laid out in the open, there is little room for maneuvering or adapting to changing circumstances. By maintaining a degree of ambiguity, one can remain flexible and adaptable, able to adjust their message to suit the situation at hand.