Clichés are static, the emotion behind them long spent. If…
“Clichés are static, the emotion behind them long spent. If you are tempted to use them, here is a saying of my mother’s: Fang pi bu-cho, cho pi bu-fang. Basically that translates to: "Loud farts don’t stink, and the really smelly ones don’t make a sound." In other words: When you’re full of beans, you just blow a lot of hot air. If you want to have a real impact, be deadly but silent. Oh, also recognize the difference between a bad cliché and a good quotation. My mother’s saying is a good quotation. You should use it often.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Clichés are empty unless they convey genuine feeling; the most effective words are subtle yet powerful.
In simple terms: Avoid overused phrases; be concise and impactful.
Key Takeaway
Choose silence over noisy emptiness.
Themes
communication
authenticity
impact
Mood
thoughtful
witty
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- writing workshops
- media training
Key Concepts
subtlety
paradox
cultural wisdom
Questions to Reflect On
- When does a cliché become useful?
- How can quiet strength be heard?
A Different Perspective
Silence can be misread as disengagement.