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The writer sensitive to language finds his own metaphors…

“The writer sensitive to language finds his own metaphors, not simply because he has been taught to avoid clichés but because he enjoys finding an exact and vivid metaphor, one never before thought of, so far as he knows.” quote by John Gardner
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““The writer sensitive to language finds his own metaphors, not simply because he has been taught to avoid clichés but because he enjoys finding an exact and vivid metaphor, one never before thought of, so far as he knows.””

John Gardner

About This Quote

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

Writers who deeply engage with language create original, vivid metaphors rather than relying on taught clichés.

In simple terms: Deep language use yields fresh metaphors.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate attentive, playful language habits.

Themes

creativity language writing

Mood

inspired reflective

Type

literary instructional

When to use this quote

  • novel writing
  • poetry workshops
  • creative brainstorming

Key Concepts

metaphor creation originality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you train yourself to notice fresh images?
  • What habits hinder metaphor originality?
A Different Perspective

Finding new metaphors can be time‑consuming and may still echo familiar ideas.

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