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Certain Quote by David Foster Wallace

“Some words have to be explicitly uttered, Lenore. Only by actually uttering certain words does one really DO what one SAYS. 'Love' is one of those words, performative words. Some words can literally make things real.” quote by David Foster Wallace
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“Some words have to be explicitly uttered, Lenore. Only by actually uttering certain words does one really DO what one SAYS. 'Love' is one of those words, performative words. Some words can literally make things real.”

David Foster Wallace

About This Quote

Uttering certain words, especially love, makes them real; speech acts can create reality.

In simple terms: Saying something can make it happen.

Key Takeaway

Speak intentions clearly and act on them.

Themes

language intent reality

Mood

introspective analytical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • creative writing
  • therapy

Key Concepts

speech act theory psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Which words have power for you?
  • How do you ensure words match actions?
A Different Perspective

Words alone may not change outcomes.

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