The most important things must be said simply, for they…
“The most important things must be said simply, for they are spoiled by bombast; whereas trivial things must be described grandly, for they are supported only by aptness of expression, tone and manner.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Simple ideas need plain language, otherwise they become corrupted; trivial ideas need elaborate style to be effective.
In simple terms: Simple ideas need plain language; trivial ideas need style.
Match style to substance.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- writing
- teaching
- marketing
- political discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does you affect comprehension?
- When is elaborate language justified?
Overly ornate language can obscure meaning even in simple matters.