O, they have lived long on the alms-basket of words. I…
““O, they have lived long on the alms-basket of words. I marvel thy master hath not eaten thee for a word; for thou art not so long by the head as honorificabilitudinitatibus: thou art easier swallowed than a flap-dragon.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Excessive wordiness can be burdensome; brevity is preferable to avoid being swallowed by language.
In simple terms: Too many words are heavy.
Key Takeaway
Prefer concise expression.
Themes
language
brevity
communication
humor
literature
Mood
playful
critical
Type
literary
satirical
When to use this quote
- writing
- public speaking
- teaching
- debate
Key Concepts
Rhetoric
lexical overload
satire
Questions to Reflect On
- When is elaborate language necessary?
- How can humor soften criticism?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on brevity may overlook nuance and depth.