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All language begins with speech, and the speech of common…

“All language begins with speech, and the speech of common men at that, but when it develops to the point of becoming a literary medium it only looks like speech.” quote by Raymond Chandler
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“All language begins with speech, and the speech of common men at that, but when it develops to the point of becoming a literary medium it only looks like speech.”

Raymond Chandler

About This Quote

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

Literary language mimics speech but becomes a crafted art form.

In simple terms: Writing imitates speech.

Key Takeaway

Study literary style.

Themes

language literature artifice

Mood

critical observational

Type

literary analytical

When to use this quote

  • creative writing
  • teaching
  • editing
  • publishing

Key Concepts

stylistics dialogue

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this affect readability?
  • What purpose does the mimicry serve?
A Different Perspective

Readers may miss the artificiality.

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