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The English language is like a broad river on whose bank a…

“The English language is like a broad river on whose bank a few patient anglers are sitting, while, higher up, the stream is being polluted by a string of refuse-barges tipping out their muck.” quote by Cyril Connolly
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“The English language is like a broad river on whose bank a few patient anglers are sitting, while, higher up, the stream is being polluted by a string of refuse-barges tipping out their muck.”

Cyril Connolly

About This Quote

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

Language evolves, but a few careful custodians preserve its purity while the rest is polluted.

In simple terms: Language is a river; few protect it, many pollute it.

Key Takeaway

Guard language quality.

Themes

culture communication preservation

Mood

critical analytical

Type

commentary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • editing
  • education
  • media consumption

Key Concepts

linguistics media influence

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who are the custodians of language today?
  • Can we truly protect language?
A Different Perspective

Language change is inevitable; control is limited.

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