In Saul Bellow's "Mr. Sammler's Planet," the character reflects on the nature of being right in discussions and debates. The idea is presented that having the correct viewpoint often relies more on how one articulates their reasoning rather than the intrinsic validity of their argument. This highlights the importance of communication skills and persuasive storytelling in the pursuit of truth.
The quote suggests that the effectiveness of an argument is heavily influenced by the explanatory power behind it. It implies that one's ability to convince others hinges on their capacity to convey ideas clearly and engagingly. Being right is not solely about the facts at hand but also about how those facts are presented and interpreted in conversation.