Messrs. Strunk and White don’t speculate as to why so many…
““Messrs. Strunk and White don’t speculate as to why so many writers are attracted to passive verbs, but I’m willing to; I think timid writers like them for the same reason timid lovers like passive partners. The passive voice is safe. There is no troublesome action to contend with; the subject just has to close its eyes and think of England, to paraphrase Queen Victoria. I think unsure writers also feel the passive voice somehow lends their work authority, perhaps even a quality of majesty. If you find instruction manuals and lawyers’ torts majestic, I guess it does.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Passive voice offers safety, authority, and perceived majesty, but can mask responsibility and weaken prose.
In simple terms: Passive voice feels safe and grand.
Key Takeaway
Use active voice for clarity.
Themes
writing
style
authority
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
instructional
philosophical
When to use this quote
- editing
- creative writing
- legal documents
- technical manuals
Key Concepts
grammar
psychology
communication
Questions to Reflect On
- When does passive voice serve purpose?
- How can you balance tone and clarity?
A Different Perspective
Overuse can make text vague and disengaging.