Can thinking about this distinction guide us?

Both fine and applied art have value. I’m drawn to the fine art.

What are the participants creating during a good conversation? Certainly, good conversations have a “do no harm” undertone. But it’s the pleasure of the shared experience which is at the core.

To your capability you may apply a very simple test: have you accomplished your purpose? In the case of conversation as a fine art, has the other person been entertained or stimulated? In its use as an applied art, has he been swung round to your point of view; does he feel the way you want him to feel? In any case, does he look back on the conversation with pleasure?

~ M Wright, from The Art of Conversation

I love how Wright distinguishes conversations which are fine art, versus those which are applied art. Both fine and applied art have value. I’m drawn to the fine art. Regardless of type, we’re always going to be balancing our resources (including always-precious time) and priorities.

How can thinking about this distinction help you in your conversations?

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