A brass megaphone lies on its side with its wide opening sealed by red wax against a deep red background.

Original artwork, not a still

Roger Ebert

Of what use is freedom of speech to those who fear to offend?

Behind the line

What it means

Our interpretation.

The question asks what freedom of speech achieves if fear of offense keeps people silent. It challenges people to use a right they claim to value. The point is about the courage to speak, not a claim that every useful statement must offend.

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