Quote of the day by ‘A Farewell To Arms’ writer Ernest Hemingway: ‘When people talk listen completely. Don't be thinking what you're going to say..’ ; lessons on art of hearing from American literary icon

One of the best ways to learn is to observe. Most people don’t bother to listen patiently when another individual is speaking as they are too busy to express their opinions, articulate their thoughts. Years ago, iconic writer Ernest Hemingway gave a piece of priceles advice to his readers: Listen to people if you want to learn and evolve.

Quote Of The Day By Ernest Hemingway

In an article he wrote for Esquire Magazine, the ‘Farewell To Arms’ writer urged people to listen patiently. "Listen now. When people talk listen completely. Don't be thinking what you're going to say. Most people never listen. Nor do they observe. You should be able to go into a room and when you come out know everything that you saw there and not only that. If that room gave you any feeling you should know exactly what it was that gave you that feeling. Try that for practice."

Deeper Meaning Of The Quote

The quote underlines a timeless truth: You can learn more if you keep your eyes and ears open. Listening is an art few manage to master. Most people are ready to give an opinion, or express judgement when someone is speaking, but that seldom leads one to learn anything substantial.


On a deeper level, the quote is a reminder to set aside our ego. The desire to immediately respond, impress, or prove a point often comes from focusing on ourselves rather than the other person. By listening fully, we become more empathetic, open-minded, and capable of learning something new.

Ultimately, the message is that effective communication begins not with speaking but with listening.

Relevance Of The Quote

Hemingway’s words ring true eve today. In an age dominated by smartphones, social media and innumerable distractions, genuine listening has become rare. This quote emphasises the importance of active listening in building meaningful relationships. Whether in families, friendships, workplaces, or romantic relationships, people want to feel heard and understood. The quote is also relevant in professional relationships, as listening is integral to effective leadership and teamwork.

Who Was Ernest Hemingway?

Known as one of the greatest American authors, Hemingway was a pioneer of using economic, minimalist style of writing. Several of his literary works, including seven novels, six collections of short stories, and two non-fiction books, have earned a lasting place in the canon of American literature. Many of these writings are regarded as timeless classics, celebrated for their influence, artistic merit, and enduring popularity. In recognition of his outstanding contribution to literature, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954.

His mother, Grace Hall Hemingway was a respected musician in her community and played a significant role in shaping her son's artistic development. Although he was not particularly enthusiastic about learning music, she insisted that he take cello lessons during his childhood. What he initially viewed as an obligation later proved valuable in unexpected ways.

As an adult, he reflected on how his musical training influenced his approach to writing. He believed that the discipline, rhythm, and structural patterns he learned through music helped him develop his literary craft. In particular, he pointed to the intricate, interwoven narrative design of his novel For Whom the Bell Tolls, describing it as having a "contrapuntal" structure—a technique borrowed from music in which multiple independent melodies work together harmoniously.

Hemingway was married four times. His first wife Hadley Richardson with whom he lived in Paris for some time. They had one son, Jack. His second wife Pauline was a fashion journalist. They had two sons - Patrick and Gregory. His third wife was Martha Gellhorn a writer-journalist, considered one of the greatest war correspondents. Mary Welsh, a journalist, was his last wife and they remained married till his death in 1961.

In October 1954, Hemingway was honored with the prestigious Nobel Prize in Literature, one of the highest recognitions in the literary world. Despite receiving the award, Hemingway responded with characteristic humility. He publicly suggested that other distinguished figures, including Carl Sandburg, Isak Dinesen, and Bernard Berenson, were equally deserving of the honor.

Some of his most iconic works are: A Farewell To Arms, The Sun Also Rises, The Old Man And The Sea, For Whom The Bell Tolls, Men Without Women etc.

During a trip to Africa in 1954, Ernest Hemingway survived two separate plane accidents that occurred within a short period of time. The crashes left him with severe injuries and long-lasting physical complications, contributing to chronic pain and declining health in the years that followed. In 1961, Hemingway died by suicide at his home in Ketchum, Idaho.