In "Theft by Finding: Diaries" by David Sedaris, the author reflects on the nature of intelligence and self-promotion. He observes that those who are genuinely intelligent often do not feel the need to boast about their capabilities. Instead, their cleverness is evident to others without excessive explanation.

This observation highlights a common tendency among some individuals to seek validation through verbal assertions of their intelligence. Sedaris suggests that true intelligence speaks for itself, and constant self-assertion can come across as insecurity rather than confidence.