Skip to content

There is nothing finer in the world than the telling of…

“There is nothing finer in the world than the telling of tales. Split atoms if you wish, but splitting an infinitive-and getting away with it-is far nobler. Lance boils if you wish, but pricking pretensions is often cleaner and always more fun.” quote by Greg Bear
Download Open image
“There is nothing finer in the world than the telling of tales. Split atoms if you wish, but splitting an infinitive-and getting away with it-is far nobler. Lance boils if you wish, but pricking pretensions is often cleaner and always more fun.”

Greg Bear

About This Quote

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

Stories hold a unique power; playing with language can be clever but often messy.

In simple terms: Telling tales is noble; word tricks can be messy.

Key Takeaway

Value clear storytelling over clever wordplay.

Themes

storytelling language creativity

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • writing workshops
  • public speaking
  • creative writing
  • editing

Key Concepts

narrative power linguistic play

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does language choice affect audience engagement?
  • When is linguistic cleverness appropriate?
A Different Perspective

Clever wordplay may distract from the story’s impact.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Greg Bear

Explore all 55 Greg Bear quotes

More Atoms quotes

Browse all 852 Atoms quotes