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They Say
Have you ever heard someone begin a conversation with the words, "They say"? Often, what follows is a story about another person, and we may not even know whether it is true. In her poem, They Say, Lillian E. Curtis reminds us how easily gossip can spread and how much hurt it can cause.
Words have a way of travelling from one person to another. Sometimes a story changes a little each time it is repeated, and before long, something that may never have happened is accepted as the truth. Sadly, the person being talked about may never have the opportunity to explain or defend themselves.
This poem encourages us to think before we speak. Is what we are repeating true? Is it necessary? Will our words help someone, or could they cause harm? These are questions worth asking, especially when we hear something unkind about another person.
As you read this poem, may it remind you that kindness is not only shown by what we say but also by what we choose not to repeat. You may also enjoy our collection of Famous Poems, which share lessons about life and human nature.
Updated October 22, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
They Say
Poet: Lillian E. Curtis
"They say" is a bitter friend to all -
Old and young,
Rich and poor,
Alike to all;
Even on the most innocent
The "They Say" rumors fall.
They generally commence
Without foundation,
And touch upon those
Of every rank and every station.
"They Say" is told to an intimate friend,
And here, of course, it does not end;
Soon into another friendly ear,
The tale is poured, with a laugh and sneer,
"They Say" has blighted many a life
Has caused hatred, envy and strife;
Yet, the "They Say" rumors do not cease,
But rather continue to increase.
Could the innocent and unsuspecting
For a moment know
That "They Say" is on the go,
They would not wonder why
Old friends pass them coolly by.
"They Say" is continually causing
Sorrow, grief and woe,
And is, indeed, to all (exceptions are rare)
A bitter foe.
"They Say" rumors are ever
On the wing,
And few they are who stop to ask
Whence they spring.
Let each and every one,
To whom is told "They Say,"
Just pause, before replying,
And ask who are the "They."
What Does The Poem They Say Teach Us?
Lillian E. Curtis reminds us that gossip is not always harmless conversation. A few careless words can damage someone's reputation, create misunderstandings, and even end friendships. What begins as a simple story can quickly become something that causes lasting hurt.
One of the most important lessons in this poem is that we should question what we hear. Just because someone says a story is true does not mean it is. We may only be hearing one side, or the facts may have changed as the story was passed from person to person.
The poet also reminds us that gossip can affect anyone. It does not matter whether a person is young or old, wealthy or poor. Everyone deserves to be treated with fairness and respect.
Perhaps the strongest message comes in the final lines, when Curtis encourages us to pause and ask who the mysterious "they" really are. Rather than accepting every story we hear, we can choose to be thoughtful, fair, and kind.
Key Reflections In This Poem
- Think Before You Speak Words can cause hurt even when that is not our intention. Before repeating a story, consider whether it is true, necessary, and kind.
- Gossip Can Damage Relationships Rumors can create mistrust and misunderstandings between people. A friendship that took years to build can be damaged by a few careless words.
- Question What You Hear Not everything we are told is accurate or complete. Taking time to question the source of a story can prevent unnecessary hurt.
- Choose Kindness Over Gossip We cannot always control what others say, but we can control what we repeat. Choosing not to spread an unkind story is one way to show respect for others.
Popular Pages
Poetry often reminds us of the lessons we learn through everyday experiences. Explore these poems and quotes about character, relationships, kindness, and the choices we make in life.
Discover writers whose words continue to offer meaningful lessons and inspiration in our collection of Famous Poets.
Enjoy another poem by Lillian E. Curtis that celebrates family relationships with this Cousin Birthday Poem.
Reflect on the qualities that truly matter in life through the encouraging poem The Successful Man.
Find short and meaningful verses that are enjoyable to learn and remember in our collection of Easy Poems to Memorize.
Discover encouraging thoughts about making positive choices and living with purpose in Be Inspired.
Conclusion
Lillian E. Curtis's poem, They Say, is a reminder that words have consequences. Gossip may seem like harmless conversation, but the stories we repeat can affect another person's feelings, friendships, and reputation.
The next time you hear someone begin a story with "They say," remember the poet's advice to pause and question what you are hearing. You may never know the full story, but you can always choose to speak with kindness and fairness. Sometimes the best way to make a positive difference is simply to refuse to pass along words that could hurt someone else.
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