A creative writing teacher at San Jose State used to say…
““A creative writing teacher at San Jose State used to say about clichés: 'Avoid them like the plague.' Then he'd laugh at his own joke. The class laughed along with him, but I always thought clichés got a bum rap. Because, often, they're dead-on. But the aptness of the clichéd saying is overshadowed by the nature of the saying as a cliché.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Clichés can be both overused and surprisingly accurate, revealing truth despite their worn form.
In simple terms: Clichés may be trite yet often hit the truth.
Key Takeaway
Recognize useful clichés while avoiding lazy writing.
Themes
writing
language
expression
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
literary
critical
When to use this quote
- teaching writing
- editing
- creative workshops
Key Concepts
cliché theory
communication
authenticity
Questions to Reflect On
- When does a cliché become a helpful shortcut?
- How can you refresh a cliché without losing its meaning?
A Different Perspective
Clichés can stifle originality if overrelied upon.