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Cliche Quote by Khaled Hosseini

“A creative writing teacher at San Jose State used to say about clichés: 'Avoid them like the plague.' Then he'd laugh at his own joke. The class laughed along with him, but I always thought clichés got a bum rap. Because, often, they're dead-on. But the aptness of the clichéd saying is…” quote by Khaled Hosseini
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““A creative writing teacher at San Jose State used to say about clichés: 'Avoid them like the plague.' Then he'd laugh at his own joke. The class laughed along with him, but I always thought clichés got a bum rap. Because, often, they're dead-on. But the aptness of the clichéd saying is overshadowed by the nature of the saying as a cliché.””

Khaled Hosseini

About This Quote

Clichés can be both overused and surprisingly accurate, revealing truth despite their worn form.

In simple terms: Clichés may be trite yet often hit the truth.

Key Takeaway

Recognize useful clichés while avoiding lazy writing.

Themes

writing language expression

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

literary critical

When to use this quote

  • teaching writing
  • editing
  • creative workshops

Key Concepts

cliché theory communication authenticity

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does a cliché become a helpful shortcut?
  • How can you refresh a cliché without losing its meaning?
A Different Perspective

Clichés can stifle originality if overrelied upon.

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