Good prose is the selection of the best words; poetry is…
“Good prose is the selection of the best words; poetry is the best words in the best order; and journalese is any old words in any old order”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Prose selects best words; poetry arranges them perfectly; journalism uses old words carelessly.
In simple terms: Good writing chooses words; poetry orders them; journalism is careless.
Strive for precise, purposeful language.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- editing
- creative writing
- journalistic standards
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you decide word choice?
- What makes poetry distinct?
Oversimplifies complex writing processes.