Examine every word you put on paper. You'll find a surprising number that don't serve any purpose.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the importance of being concise and intentional in writing.
William Zinsser encourages writers to scrutinize their words carefully, suggesting that many words might lack relevance or purpose. By examining each word, one can enhance the clarity and impact of their writing, ensuring that only meaningful content is communicated.
In practice
During a writing workshop, you might quote Zinsser to emphasize the need for clearer communication.
Writing is hard work. A clear sentence is no accident. Very few sentences come out right the first time, or even the third time. Remember this in moments of despair. If you find that writing is hard, it's because it is hard. It's one of the hardest things that people do
Never hesitate to imitate another writer. Imitation is part of the creative process for anyone learning an art or a craft. Bach and Picasso didn't spring full-blown as Bach or Picasso; they needed models. This is especially true of writing.
Good writing is lean and confident.
My four articles of faith: clarity, simplicity, brevity and humanity.
I have no interest in teaching writers how to sell. I want to teach them how to write. If the process is sound, the product will take care of itself, and sales are likely to follow.
Don't hedge your prose with little timidities. Good writing is lean and confident. . . . Every little qualifier whittles away some fraction of the reader's trust. Readers want a writer who believes in himself and in what he is saying. Don't diminish that belief. Don't be kind of bold. Be bold.
People who read are not too lazy to turn on the television; they prefer books.
Write regularly, day in and day out, at whatever times of day you find that you write best. Don't wait till you feel that you are in the mood. Write, whether you are feeling inclined to write or not.
All provisions of federal, state or local law requiring or permitting discrimination in public education must yield.
If the idea of the universe is presented to the child in the right way, it will do more for him than just arouse his interest, for it will create in him admiration and wonder, a feeling loftier than any interest and more satisfying.
Books are personal, passionate. They stir emotions and spark thoughts in a manner all their own, and I'm convinced that the shattered world has less hope for repair if reading becomes an ever smaller part of it.
I think the most important thing we can teach our kids for their long-term health and happiness is how to cook.
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