Talk ought always to run obliquely, not nose to nose with no chance of mental escape.

The quote "Talk ought always to run obliquely, not nose to nose with no chance of mental escape" by Frank Moore Colby suggests that conversations should be more indirect and thoughtful, rather than confrontational or rigid. Colby implies that communication should flow in a way that allows for flexibility and freedom of thought, rather than being a direct or forceful exchange where one is cornered with no room for alternative ideas or solutions. The idea is that a conversation should give space for reflection, allowing individuals to think and respond without feeling trapped by the conversation.

The origin of this quote comes from Colby’s views on dialogue and the human need for mental freedom in communication. Colby, an American author and editor, was known for his reflections on social interactions and the importance of thoughtful exchange. In this quote, he is advocating for a style of conversation that nurtures understanding and open-mindedness, rather than one that limits expression through direct confrontation or rigid opinions.

By encouraging conversation to "run obliquely," Colby is advocating for a more indirect and nuanced form of discourse, where ideas can be explored from different angles, and people are given the space to change their perspectives. This approach contrasts with conversations that are confrontational or inflexible, which may lead to mental or emotional deadlocks, where both parties are unable to see beyond their own positions.

Overall, Colby’s words reflect his belief that communication should be an engaging and dynamic exchange of ideas, not a rigid battle of opinions. He highlights the value of flexibility and creativity in dialogue, encouraging people to approach conversations with an openness that allows for intellectual growth and mutual understanding.