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It is no great art to say something briefly when, like…

“It is no great art to say something briefly when, like Tacitus, one has something to say; when one has nothing to say, however, and none the less writes a whole book and makes truth into a liar - that I call an achievement.” quote by Horace
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“It is no great art to say something briefly when, like Tacitus, one has something to say; when one has nothing to say, however, and none the less writes a whole book and makes truth into a liar - that I call an achievement.”

Horace

About This Quote

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

Brief expression is an art; verbosity can distort truth, turning it into falsehood.

In simple terms: Speak concisely; avoid unnecessary length.

Key Takeaway

Choose brevity over excess.

Themes

communication truth literature

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • public speaking
  • writing
  • teaching

Key Concepts

conciseness honesty clarity

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is brevity harmful?
  • How do you balance detail and clarity?
A Different Perspective

Complex ideas may need elaboration, risking oversimplification.

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