Finally, with reference to the third qualification of the non-lover,
it is true that neuter language does not excite public opinion. This
fact follows from its character outlined above. Rhetorical language on
the other hand, for whatever purpose used, excites interest and with it
either pleasure or alarm. People listen instinctively to the man whose
speech betrays inclination. It does not matter what the inclination is
toward, but we may say that the greater the degree of inclination, the
greater the curiosity or response. Hence a “style” in speech always
causes one to be a marked man, and the public may not be so much
impressed—at least initially—by what the man is for or against as by the
fact that he has a style. The way therefore to avoid public comment is
to avoid the speech of affection and to use that of business, since, to
echo the original proposition of Lysias, everybody knows that one must do
business with others. From another standpoint, then, this is the language
of prudence. These are the features which give neuter discourse an appeal
to those who expect a scientific solution of human problems.
In summing up the trend of meaning, we note that Lysias has been praising
a disinterested kind of relationship which avoids all excesses and
irrationalities, all the dementia of love. It is a circumspect kind of
relationship, which is preferred by all men who wish to do well in the
world and avoid tempestuous courses. We have compared its detachment
with the kind of abstraction to be found in scientific notation. But as
an earnest of what is to come let us note, in taking leave of this part,
that Phaedrus expresses admiration for the eloquence, especially of
diction, with which the suit of the non-lover has been urged. This is our
warning of the dilemma of the non-lover.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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