The Trumpet of the Swan

The Trumpet of the Swan  

by E.B. White 

 

 

"Do not let an unnatural sadness settle over you, Louis. Swans must be cheerful, not sad; graceful, not awkward; brave, not cowardly. Remember that the world is full of youngsters who have some sort of handicap that they must overcome. You apparently have a speech defect. I am sure you will overcome it, in time. There may even be some slight advantage, at your age, in not being able to say anything. It compels you to be a good listener. The world is full of talkers, but it is rare to find anyone who listens. And I assure you that you can pick up more information when you are listening than when you are talking." 

 

 

 

'''All swans are vain' said the cob. 'It is right for swans to feel proud, graceful—that's what swans are for.'''