When it's a matter of not-do, I reckon a man can trust himself for advice. But when it comes to a matter of doing, I reckon a fellow had better listen to all the advice he can get.
In the quote from William Faulkner's "Light in August," the author contrasts two types of decision-making: choosing not to act and the act of doing something. He implies that when it comes to refraining from action, one's own judgment might suffice, as it is a more personal consideration. However, when it involves taking action, it is wise to seek diverse perspectives and advice. This suggests that doing requires careful thought and often the input of others to navigate successfully.
Faulkner emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and collaboration in the process of making decisions that involve action. The idea is that while self-trust is valuable, a broader range of insights can lead to more informed and effective choices. Thus, when faced with the necessity of action, being open to advice can enrich one's options and better equip one to handle the outcome.
