Writing speeches
SocratesDon’t you see that at the start of a statesman’s written work, the first person named is the one who praises him?
PhaedrusHow?
SocratesIt says, I believe, “The council resolved”, or “The people resolved”, or both; then comes “So-and-so proposed”—the author solemnly naming and praising himself. After that he speaks, displaying his wisdom to those who praise him, sometimes in a very long document. Does such a thing seem to you anything other than a written speech?
PhaedrusNo, nothing else.
SocratesIf such a work remains in force, its author leaves the theatre rejoicing. But if it is struck out and he loses his share in speechwriting and the honour of being an author, he and his companions mourn.
PhaedrusVery much so.
SocratesPlainly they do not despise the pursuit; they admire it.
PhaedrusCertainly.
SocratesAnd what if someone becomes a powerful enough orator or king to gain the power of Lycurgus, Solon or Darius, and so become an immortal speechwriter in his city? Does he not regard himself as equal to the gods while still alive? And do later generations, looking at his writings, not think the same of him?
PhaedrusThey certainly do.
SocratesDo you think, then, that any such man, however ill-disposed towards Lysias, would reproach him for writing itself?
PhaedrusThat is hardly likely, from what you say. He would apparently be reproaching his own desire.
SocratesThen it is clear to everyone that writing speeches is not in itself shameful.
PhaedrusHow could it be?