Remember, it is no sign of weakness or defeat that your manuscript ends up in need of major surgery. This is a common occurrence in all writing, and among the best writers.
William Strunk, Jr.Read
Rather, very, little, pretty - these are the leeches that infest the pond of prose, sucking the blood of words. The constant use of the adjective little (except to indicate size) is particularly debilitating; we should all try to do a little better, we should all be very watchful of this rule, for it is a rather important one, and we are pretty sure to violate it now and then.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of careful word choice in writing, warning against overuse of certain adjectives that dilute meaning.
William Strunk, Jr. discusses how excessive reliance on weak adjectives like 'little', 'very', and 'pretty' can undermine the strength and clarity of prose. He urges writers to be vigilant in their word choice, as strong, precise language is vital for effective communication. The warning serves as a reminder for writers to strive for excellence and authenticity in their writing.
Themes
WritingLanguageClarityWordsAdjectives
In practice
Example use cases
During a writing workshop, the facilitator quoted Strunk to highlight the importance of word choice.
More from William Strunk, Jr.
All quotes →The surest way to arouse and hold the attention of the reader is by being specific, definitive, and concrete. The greatest writers - Homer, Dante, Shakespeare - are effective largely because they deal in particulars and report the details that matter. Their words call up pictures.
William Strunk, Jr.Read
Instead of announcing what you are about to tell is interesting, make it so.
William Strunk, Jr.Read
The approach to style is by way of plainness, simplicity, orderliness, sincerity.
William Strunk, Jr.Read
Make definite assertions. Avoid tame, colorless, hesitating, non-committal language.
William Strunk, Jr.Read
Avoid fancy words....If you admire fancy words, if every sky is beauteous, every blonde curvaceous, every intelligent child prodigious, if you are tickled by discombobulate, you will have bad time Reminder 14.
William Strunk, Jr.Read
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