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Crude at first [the short story] received a literary…

“Crude at first [the short story] received a literary polish in the press, but its dominant quality remained. It was concise and condense, yet suggestive. It was delightfully extravagant - or a miracle of understatement” quote by Bret Harte
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“Crude at first [the short story] received a literary polish in the press, but its dominant quality remained. It was concise and condense, yet suggestive. It was delightfully extravagant - or a miracle of understatement”

Bret Harte

About This Quote

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

The short story, initially raw, was refined by the press but kept its concise, suggestive, and extravagant quality, showcasing a miracle of understatement.

In simple terms: The story stayed concise yet expressive after polishing.

Key Takeaway

Value brevity with depth.

Themes

literature style editing

Mood

reflective appreciative

Type

literary analytical

When to use this quote

  • creative writing
  • editing process
  • literary criticism

Key Concepts

conciseness suggestiveness understatement

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does editing enhance or limit a story?
  • What makes understatement powerful?
A Different Perspective

Over‑editing can dilute original voice.

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