How we cite our quotes: Line
Quote #7
I got the name Worse Argument among the intellectuals / for just this very reason, that I pioneered a new technique, / a logical way to contradict established laws and morals. (1038-1040)
Worse Argument freely admits that he has a technique for using logic (or rhetoric, really) to contradict any firm ideas about what's morally right or wrong. And he's darn proud of it, in fact.
Quote #8
Why, teach him and discipline him, and don't forget / to put sharp edges on his tongue. One edge / for hacking little lawsuits; hone the other / for cutting into meatier affairs. (1107-1110)
These are Strepsiades's instructions to Worse Argument when he entrusts Pheidippides to WA's teachings. As you can see, he's hoping that Pheidippides learns the right rhetorical skills to get the family out of their financial mess with his "tongue."
Quote #9
I've made some fair and reasonable requests— / "Look here, my man, this payment isn't urgent; / please put this off, forgive that"—but they refuse / to deal on any such terms. They call me names, / like chiseler, and promise to drag me into court. / Well, let them drag me now! I couldn't care less, / if Pheidippides has learned his lessons well. / I'll soon find out, if I knock at the Thinkery. (1137-1144)
Strepsiades describes how he tried to talk his way out of his debts in the past. We imagine his "arguments" wouldn't have been terribly persuasive or effective, so no wonder he thought he needed help from a skilled rhetorician.