Cases Quote by E. M. Forster
“A sentence begins quite simply, then it undulates and expands, parentheses intervene like quick-set hedges, the flowers of comparison bloom, and three fields off, like a wounded partridge, crouches the principal verb, making one wonder as one picks it up, poor little thing, whether after all it was worth such a tramp, so many guns, and such expensive dogs, and what, after all, is its relation to the main subject, potted so gaily half a page back, and proving finally to have been in the accusative case.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: A Passage to India, E. M. Forster, 1924
The sentence is overly complex, with many digressions that obscure its main point and grammatical role.
In simple terms: Complex sentence hides its main idea.
Key Takeaway
Simplify sentences for clarity.
Themes
writing
clarity
grammar
style
complexity
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
literary
educational
When to use this quote
- academic writing
- editing
- teaching
- literary analysis
- proofreading
Key Concepts
syntax
digression
subject‑verb agreement
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance richness and readability?
- When is complexity appropriate?
A Different Perspective
Complexity can be intentional for artistic effect.
![“Brackets come in various shapes, types and names: 1 round brackets (which we call brackets, and the Americans call parentheses) 2 square brackets [which we call square brackets, and the Americans call brackets]” quote by Lynne Truss](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b33/lynne-truss-4153_brackets_brackets-come-in-various-shapes-types-an_222507.jpg)
![“[As in the case of] alcohol prohibition, illegality has driven organized crime, sent countless people to jail, and killed many thousands. Repression does not work.” quote by Sam Branson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/212/sam-branson-36458_alcohol_as-in-the-case-of-alcohol-prohibition-il_8703.jpg)
