Definition of Controversy

  In controversy with the facile tongue --
  That bloodless warfare of the old and young --
  So seek your adversary to engage
  That on himself he shall exhaust his rage,
  And, like a snake that's fastened to the ground,
  With his own fangs inflict the fatal wound.
  You ask me how this miracle is done?
  Adopt his own opinions, one by one,
  And taunt him to refute them; in his wrath
  He'll sweep them pitilessly from his path.
  Advance then gently all you wish to prove,
  Each proposition prefaced with, 'As you've
  So well remarked,' or, 'As you wisely say,
  And I cannot dispute,' or, 'By the way,
  This view of it which, better far expressed,
  Runs through your argument.'  Then leave the rest
  To him, secure that he'll perform his trust
  And prove your views intelligent and just.

Conmore Apel Brune