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Become Quote by Horace

“I strive to be brief but I become obscure.” quote by Horace
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“I strive to be brief but I become obscure.”

Horace

About This Quote

Source Poetry: Epistles, c. 20 BC

The speaker tries to be concise but ends up being unclear, highlighting the tension between brevity and clarity.

In simple terms: Being brief can make you vague.

Key Takeaway

Balance conciseness with clarity.

Themes

communication writing clarity

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • emails
  • public speaking
  • writing drafts

Key Concepts

rhetoric self‑awareness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you ensure brevity doesn’t sacrifice meaning?
  • When is detail more important than brevity?
A Different Perspective

Too much brevity can obscure meaning.

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