To succeed in the other trades, capacity must be shown; in the law, concealment of it will do.

What did Mark Twain mean by:

To succeed in the other trades, capacity must be shown; in the law, concealment of it will do.

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This quote suggests a dichotomy between the practice of law and other professions. In most professions, success is often contingent upon showcasing one’s skills, talents, or capacity. This could mean demonstrating technical expertise, creativity, or leadership, among other things. However, according to the quote, the legal profession is different. Here, it’s suggested that success might be more about concealing your capacity rather than displaying it.

The notion of ‘concealment’ here could refer to the strategic withholding of information or intention. In a legal context, this could mean not revealing your entire case strategy to the opposition, or not showing all your cards at once. It could also imply the ability to maintain a poker face, not letting emotions or thoughts be easily read by others. This, according to the quote, is where the real talent in law lies.

In today’s world, this idea could be applied in various contexts. In business negotiations or diplomatic relations, for instance, success often depends on the strategic withholding of information until the right moment. In personal development, this could translate into the importance of being tactful, knowing when to speak, and when to hold back.

However, it’s important to note that this quote should not be taken as an endorsement of dishonesty or deception. Rather, it underscores the value of strategic thinking, discretion, and the ability to control one’s outward display of knowledge or emotion. It’s about understanding the power dynamics at play and navigating them effectively.

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