The quote from John Barth's "The Sot-Weed Factor" highlights the contrast between simple and witty individuals. It suggests that a straightforward person focuses on the position one takes in a discussion, rather than the reasoning behind it. Their concern lies predominantly in the outcome of the argument rather than the thoughts that accompany it.

In contrast, the clever individual values the ability to articulate and defend one's stance more than the stance itself. This implies that intelligence lies in the art of persuasion and the cleverness of one’s argument, rather than the substance of the belief held. The witty folk are less concerned with absolute truths and more with the skill of debate.