Common Quote by George Eliot
“When one is grateful for something too good for common thanks, writing is less unsatisfactory than speech-one does not, at least, hear how inadequate the words are.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Oxford Review, 1882
Gratitude for extraordinary gifts makes spoken words feel inadequate, so writing becomes a more satisfying expression.
In simple terms: Writing feels better than speaking for deep gratitude.
Use writing to express profound thanks.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- thank‑you letters
- journaling
- public speeches
- social media posts
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does writing change your feeling of gratitude?
- When is speaking more effective?
Writing may not capture the immediacy of spoken emotion.