“Cato practiced the kind of public speech capable of moving the masses, believing proper political philosophy takes care like any great city to maintain the warlike element. But he was never seen practicing in front of others, and no one ever heard him rehearse a speech. When he was told that people blamed him for his silence, he replied, ‘Better they not blame my life. I begin to speak only when I’m certain what I’ll say isn’t better left unsaid.’”
—PLUTARCH, CATO THE YOUNGER, 4
Cato’s approach to politics was to resist the pressure to act quickly and instead take the time to think and prepare before speaking. He wanted to make sure that his words were worthy of being heard and required honest self-evaluation and awareness. He challenges the reader to do the same.
