Condensation Quote by Charles Caleb Colton
“Where we cannot invent, we may at least improve; we may give somewhat of novelty to that which was old, condensation to that which was diffuse, perspicuity to that which was obscure, and currency to that which was recondite.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Miscellany, 1825
Improvement is possible even without invention; we can refine, clarify, and modernize existing ideas.
In simple terms: We can enhance old things without creating new ones.
Refine and clarify existing work.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic research
- product design
- writing
- education
- policy making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What old ideas could benefit from clarification?
- How can you add value without inventing anew?
Improvement may be limited by existing constraints or lack of resources.