I read an interesting article by Barry Farber in the vicinity magazine some time ago titled,‘Learn to Listen, Listen to Learn.’

It talked about paying close attention when somebody is talking as a moment’s distraction can change your interpretation of what the other person is saying. This set me thinking. Do I also write better if I listen better? I have been mulling over the science of this and I think it does work. The more I observe people, listen to them, look in their eyes, see the change in their facial expressions, admire their surroundings, the more I know them from inside. I can feel their emotions. I also absorb a lot more for longer periods of time if I give a full ear to something and when I am ready to jot down the incident, it is as if it is playing in front of me.
The article also mentions the importance of displaying as much of your knowledge as needed. When I tied this to the aspect of writing, it proved to be a gem of an advice. Lord Chesterfield, the 18th Century British Statesman said,”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.”