Seeds and gardens
SocratesYes, my friend Phaedrus. But a much finer seriousness, I think, belongs to these matters when someone uses the art of dialectic, finds a suitable soul and plants and sows speeches in it with knowledge. Such speeches can defend both themselves and the one who planted them; they are not barren but carry seed from which other speeches grow in other souls. In this way they can preserve the seed forever and make their possessor as happy as a human being can be.
PhaedrusThat is far finer still.
SocratesNow that we agree on this, Phaedrus, we can judge the remaining questions.
PhaedrusWhich questions?
SocratesThe ones that brought us here: the criticism of Lysias over writing speeches, and speeches themselves, whether written with art or without it. I think we have made sufficiently clear what is skilful and what is not.
PhaedrusI think so too. But remind me once more.