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Art Quote by Edward Abbey

“Henry James was our master of periphrasis -- the fine art of saying as little as possible in the greatest number of words.” quote by Edward Abbey
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“Henry James was our master of periphrasis -- the fine art of saying as little as possible in the greatest number of words.”

Edward Abbey

About This Quote

Source Book: The Monkey Wrench Gang by Edward Abbey, 1975

Henry James excelled at using many words to say very little, highlighting the art of over‑elaboration.

In simple terms: James used many words for little meaning.

Key Takeaway

Beware of excessive verbosity.

Themes

literature style communication

Mood

analytical critical

Type

literary educational

When to use this quote

  • editing
  • writing workshops
  • academic papers

Key Concepts

periphrasis conciseness rhetorical excess

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is detailed language necessary?
  • How does brevity affect clarity?
A Different Perspective

Complex ideas sometimes need elaborate expression.

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