What we want is to see the child in pursuit of knowledge, and not knowledge in pursuit of the child.
George Bernard ShawRead
In literature the ambition of the novice is to acquire the literary language; the struggle of the adept is to get rid of it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Novice writers focus on mastering literary language, while experienced writers strive for simplicity.
George Bernard Shaw emphasizes the evolution of a writer from a beginner to an expert. Initially, new writers are eager to learn and adopt intricate literary styles, viewing complexity as a mark of sophistication. However, as they gain experience, they realize that effective communication often lies in simplicity and clarity, shedding unnecessary embellishments to convey their thoughts more powerfully.
Themes
LiteratureWritingSimplicityClarityMastery
In practice
Example use cases
In a writing workshop, when discussing techniques, you could quote Shaw to highlight the importance of evolving style.
More from George Bernard Shaw
All quotes βMarriage is good enough for the lower classes: they have facilities for desertion that are denied to us.
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Forgive him, for he believes that the customs of his tribe are the laws of nature!
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Those who talk most about the blessings of marriage and the constancy of its vows are the very people who declare that if the chain were broken and the prisoners left free to choose, the whole social fabric would fly asunder. You cannot have the argument both ways. If the prisoner is happy, why lock him in? If he is not, why pretend that he is?
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Treat a friend as a person who may someday become your enemy; an enemy as a person who may someday become your friend.
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The happiness of credulity is a cheap and dangerous quality.
George Bernard ShawRead
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