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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” quote by Alan Brewer
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“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”

Alan Brewer

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.

Key Takeaway

Strive for precise, purposeful language.

Themes

writing language literature

Mood

analytical educational

Type

Language:0 Newspapers:0 Poetry:0 Prose:0 Writing:0 Poetry Best:0 Good Prose:0 Words Best:0 Prose Selection:0

When to use this quote

  • editing
  • creative writing
  • journalistic standards

Key Concepts

stylistic choice creative expression media criticism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you decide word choice?
  • What makes poetry distinct?
A Different Perspective

Oversimplifies complex writing processes.

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