Book Quote by Leonard Bishop
“The only valid reason to use clichés is in the speech of a character. Cliches are indications of sloppy writing. The writer does not respect the scene he is trying to dramatize enough to fashion it through precise prose and imaginative imagery. From the book Dare to be a Great Writer: 329 Keys to Powerful Fiction by”
About This Quote
Source Book: Dare to be a Great Writer: 329 Keys to Powerful Fiction, 2015
Clichés betray a lack of originality; they should only appear when a character’s voice demands them.
In simple terms: Avoid clichés unless character‑specific.
Key Takeaway
Write with fresh, precise language.
Themes
writing
creativity
authenticity
Mood
analytical
reflective
Type
literary
instructional
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- screenwriting
- editing
- workshops
Key Concepts
originality
character voice
Questions to Reflect On
- When is a cliché useful for a character?
- How can you transform a cliché into something fresh?
A Different Perspective
Sometimes clichés can efficiently convey cultural context or humor.
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