Words in prose ought to express the intended meaning; if…
“Words in prose ought to express the intended meaning; if they attract attention to themselves, it is a fault; in the very best styles you read page after page without noticing the medium. Works of imagination should be written in very plain language; the more purely imaginative they are, the more necessary it is to be plain.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Clear, unobtrusive prose lets ideas shine; flashy language distracts and hinders immersion.
In simple terms: Plain language serves imagination.
Key Takeaway
Write plainly to let ideas stand out.
Themes
clarity
style
imagination
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
didactic
literary
When to use this quote
- teaching writing
- editing
- creative writing
- reading comprehension
Key Concepts
literary criticism
writing theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance simplicity with depth?
- When does plain language limit artistic expression?
A Different Perspective
Plainness may oversimplify complex ideas.