Knowing the Assembly
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iṭaiterintu naṉkuṇarntu colluka colli / ṉaṭaiterinta naṉmai yavar.
“Good men to whom the arts of eloquence are known, / Should seek occasion meet, and say what well they've made their own.”
“O ye that have the gift of eloquence! ascertain the mood of your audience first and then speak after careful deliberation.”
Discern the fitting moment, understand the matter thoroughly, and then speak—this is the practice of those who know how words should move.
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Parimelazhagar’s commentary
13th century · public domainParimelazhagar’s own words come first, unaltered. The plain reading follows below.
சொல்லின் நடை தெரிந்த நன்மையவர்= சொற்களின் நடையினை ஆராய்ந்து அறிந்த நன்மையினை உடையார்; இடை தெரிந்து நன்கு உணர்ந்து சொல்லுக= அவைக்கண் ஒன்று சொல்லுங்கால் அதன் செவ்வியை ஆராய்ந்து அறிந்து வழுப்படாமல் மிகவும் தெளிந்து சொல்லுக.
Source: Tamil Wikisource
Those of good character who understand the rhythm and usage of language should discern the opportune opening and speak with clear understanding.