Assuming Quote by Jeffrey Eugenides
“I tell my students that when you write, you should pretend you’re writing the best letter you ever wrote to the smartest friend you have. That way, you’ll never dumb things down. You won’t have to explain things that don’t need explaining. You’ll assume an intimacy and a natural shorthand, which is good because readers are smart and don’t wish to be condescended to.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New Yorker, 2015
Writing as if to a brilliant friend encourages authenticity and avoids condescension, fostering clear, intimate communication.
In simple terms: Write like you’re speaking to a smart friend.
Key Takeaway
Treat readers as equals.
Themes
writing
communication
authenticity
Mood
thoughtful
encouraging
Type
advice
pedagogical
When to use this quote
- teaching writing
- crafting essays
- author‑reader dialogue
Key Concepts
intimacy
shorthand
reader respect
Questions to Reflect On
- How does assuming intelligence change your tone?
- When might you need more explicit explanation?
A Different Perspective
May still need to clarify complex ideas for diverse audiences.
