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Ideal conversation must be an exchange of thought, and not, as many of those who worry most about their shortcomings believe, an eloquent exhibition of wit or oratory.

In order to practice dialogue, you need to be able to set aside your assumptions and try to listen more than you want to talk. It's not always politically correct to be able to do that, but it can give you a better sense of the reality.

I consider myself a pretty good extemporaneous speaker. Even though I don't like speaking in front of people, I don't think I'm bad at it.

Skillful conversationalists can explore disagreements and make points in ways that feel constructive and positive rather than combative or corrective.

A conversation is a dialogue, not a monologue. That's why there are so few good conversations: due to scarcity, two intelligent talkers seldom meet.

It's no use of talking unless people understand what you say.

There is no such thing as a worthless conversation, provided you know what to listen for. And questions are the breath of life for a conversation.

I am someone who doesn't talk more than what is required, but I am also a fun person.

If you have a good ear for dialogue, you just can't help thinking about the way people talk. You're drawn to it. And the obsessive interest in it forces you to develop it. You almost can't help yourself.