Clarity, clarity, surely clarity is the most beautiful thing in the world, A limited, limiting clarity I have not and never did have any motive of poetry But to achieve clarity.
George OppenRead
It is necessary to study these words you have written, for the words have a longer history than you have and say more than you know.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of understanding and reflecting on the significance of one's own words, which carry more meaning than initially apparent.
George Oppen's quote suggests that the words we write have a depth and history that surpass our immediate understanding. Engaging deeply with our own expressions allows us to uncover layers of meaning and insight that can inform our thoughts and actions, highlighting the value of reflective learning and critical thinking.
Themes
WordsUnderstandingHistoryMeaningReflection
In practice
Example use cases
In a classroom setting when teaching about the significance of literature.
More from George Oppen
All quotes βSimilar quotes
Acquire new knowledge whilst thinking over the old, and you may become a teacher of others.
ConfuciusRead
Your teaching must have the integrity of serious, sound words to which no one can take exception. If it does, no opponent will be able to find anything bad to say about us, and hostility will yield to shame.
Paul The ApostleRead
To create and distribute a free encyclopedia of the highest possible quality to every single person on the planet in their own language - That's who I am. That's what I am doing. That's my life goal.
Jimmy WalesRead
I believe we owe our young an education that captures the exhilarating drama of science.
Brian GreeneRead
Your example, even more than your words, will be an eloquent lesson to the world.
Madeleine Sophie BaratRead
I suggest to my students that they write under a pseudonym for a week. That allows young men to write as women, and women as men. It allows them a lot of freedom they don't have ordinarily.
Joyce Carol OatesRead