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The power of words is awful, Frida. Sometimes I want to…

“The power of words is awful, Frida. Sometimes I want to bury my typewriter in a box of quilts. The radio makes everything worse, because of the knack for amplifying dull sounds. Any two words spoken in haste might become law of the land. But you never know which two. You see why I won't talk to…” quote by Barbara Kingsolver
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““The power of words is awful, Frida. Sometimes I want to bury my typewriter in a box of quilts. The radio makes everything worse, because of the knack for amplifying dull sounds. Any two words spoken in haste might become law of the land. But you never know which two. You see why I won't talk to newsmen.””

Barbara Kingsolver

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Words wield powerful influence; careless speech can shape laws and narratives, prompting caution and selective silence.

In simple terms: Words are powerful; be careful with them.

Key Takeaway

Think before speaking; guard your words.

Themes

communication power responsibility media

Mood

cautious thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • journalism
  • creative writing
  • public discourse
  • personal journaling

Key Concepts

speech ethics information overload censorship

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should you speak up despite risks?
  • How do you balance expression with caution?
A Different Perspective

Silence can also be harmful if it suppresses truth.

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