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Books Quote by Isaac Asimov

“What lasts in the reader's mind is not the phrase but the effect the phrase created: laughter, tears, pain, joy. If the phrase is not affecting the reader, what's it doing there? Make it do its job or cut it without mercy or remorse.” quote by Isaac Asimov
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“What lasts in the reader's mind is not the phrase but the effect the phrase created: laughter, tears, pain, joy. If the phrase is not affecting the reader, what's it doing there? Make it do its job or cut it without mercy or remorse.”

Isaac Asimov

About This Quote

The impact of words matters more than the words themselves; if they don’t affect the reader, they’re unnecessary.

In simple terms: Effect matters more than phrasing.

Key Takeaway

Write for impact, cut ineffective text.

Themes

writing communication effectiveness

Mood

analytical creative

Type

literary inspirational

When to use this quote

  • editing
  • teaching
  • marketing
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

literary theory psychology of reading

Questions to Reflect On

  • What emotion does your phrase evoke?
  • How can you test a phrase’s impact?
A Different Perspective

May overlook subtle nuances.

2.2 out of 5 (4 ratings)

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