Copy editors Quote by Lynne Truss
““Writers jealous of their individual style are obliged to wring the utmost effect from a tiny range of marks – which explains why they get so desperate when their choices are challenged (or corrected) by copy-editors legislating according to a “house style”.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Elements of Style, 2000
Writers cling to personal quirks, making them resistant to standardized editing, which feels threatening to their identity.
In simple terms: Writers resist standard rules that challenge their personal style.
Key Takeaway
Embrace constructive feedback to improve clarity.
Themes
writing
style
editing
identity
confidence
Mood
frustrated
defensive
reflective
Type
advice
reflective
When to use this quote
- author workshops
- peer review sessions
- publishing process
- academic writing
Key Concepts
personal voice
house style
editorial standards
creative control
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance personal voice with editorial guidelines?
- When does conformity enhance communication?
A Different Perspective
Standardization can stifle creativity if applied rigidly.
![“Brackets come in various shapes, types and names: 1 round brackets (which we call brackets, and the Americans call parentheses) 2 square brackets [which we call square brackets, and the Americans call brackets]” quote by Lynne Truss](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b33/lynne-truss-4153_brackets_brackets-come-in-various-shapes-types-an_222507.jpg)
