Writing from a country famous for good talk, the Dublin classicist J. P. Mahaffy analyses what makes conversation succeed. He considers the physical and mental conditions of the talker, general and special knowledge, quickness of wit, modesty, sympathy and tact, and warns against those who hoard prepared jokes for the right moment.
Shrewd and still useful advice from Oscar Wilde’s old tutor, for anyone who hosts, dines or debates. Download the free EPUB.