Harold MacMillan Quotes

I have no sense of what I should or shouldn't talk about. I just blather. Which is why it's fun to write 'Gossip Girl.' I do tend to just talk about anything.

The time comes upon every public man when it is best for him to keep his lips closed.

Politeness is the art of choosing among your thoughts.

I don't try to be completely calculating in everything I say and do, but there's no way I'm going to talk. There's no reason to. And that's why I'm such a boring interview, because I don't go for the shock value, or smartass answers.

If you don't have anything nice to say... dead silence creates a lot awkwardness.

Silence is better than unmeaning words.

One thing I like to tell founders is the more you talk, the more you have an opportunity to say something that people don't like. Talk less, and it will probably be better.

Circumstances sometimes require, that rights the most unquestionable should be advanced with delicacy.

Forbear to mention what thou canst not praise.

To know how to hide one's ability is great skill.

Never seem wiser, nor more learned, than the people you are with. Wear your learning, like your watch, in a private pocket: and do not merely pull it out and strike it; merely to show that you have one.

When I'm being funny, I try not to offend. I don't think much of what I've done has been in really ghastly taste. I don't think I have embarrassed many people or distressed them.

Never seem more learned than the people you are with. Wear your learning like a pocket watch and keep it hidden. Do not pull it out to count the hours, but give the time when you are asked.

Sometimes you usually know the point where to keep your mouth shut.

I've learned to keep your mouth shut even when something bad is going on. You never know how someone is going to take something you say. You have to bite the bullet.

I think it's important to be subtle, sweet, and powerful.

At times, you have to maybe speak out of turn or say a little bit too much which upsets a few people.

Discretion is a very valuable asset.

I have realised that it's important to be a sport, be nice, and know what to speak and when.

I don't like to filter myself, but I do it for PR's sake.

Sometimes you've got to keep your mouth shut.

Not all lies are harmful. Sometimes we're willing participants in deception for the sake of social dignity, maybe to keep a secret that should be kept secret, secret. We say, 'Nice song.' 'Honey, you don't look fat in that, no.'

I don't think I'm a loud mouth.

Never miss an opportunity to keep your damn mouth shut.

Ambition is all very well, my lad, but you must cloak it.