Ears Quote by Barbara Tuchman
“An essential element for good writing is a good ear: One must listen to the sound of one's own prose.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Writing of History by Barbara Tuchman, 1972
Good writing requires an ear for its own rhythm and tone, so the writer can hear flaws before readers do.
In simple terms: Listen to your prose like a musician hears a melody.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate self‑listening while drafting.
Themes
writing
self‑awareness
craft
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
advice
instructional
When to use this quote
- editing drafts
- reading aloud
- peer review
- workshop feedback
Key Concepts
literary criticism
auditory perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How does hearing your own words change your revisions?
- Do you trust your ear over external feedback?
A Different Perspective
Self‑critique can become overly harsh, stifling creativity.
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