That Francis Bacon retains his reputation gained, is not…
“That Francis Bacon retains his reputation gained, is not strange to any that knows him. The unusual words wherewith he had spangled his speech, were rather gracious for their propriety than strange for their novelty, and like to serve both for occasions to report and means to remember his argument. Certain sentences of his , somewhat obscure, and as it were presuming upon their capacities will, I fear, make some of them rather admire than commend him. In sum, all is as well as words can make it, and if it please Her Majesty to add deeds, the Bacon may be too hard for the Cook.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Coke critiques Bacon’s style, noting his ornate language is more proper than novel, and that his obscure sentences may impress rather than clarify.
In simple terms: Bacon’s flowery prose can obscure meaning.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize clarity over flourish.
Themes
literary criticism
style
communication
Mood
analytical
critical
scholarly
Type
expository
analytical
When to use this quote
- academic writing
- public speaking
- legal drafting
- teaching
- editing
Key Concepts
rhetoric
clarity
obscurity
Questions to Reflect On
- How does style affect persuasiveness?
- When is complexity justified?
A Different Perspective
Overly ornate language can hinder comprehension.