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Care Quote by Norton Juster

“We never choose which words to use, for as long as they mean what they mean to mean, we don’t care if they make sense or nonsense.” quote by Norton Juster
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“We never choose which words to use, for as long as they mean what they mean to mean, we don’t care if they make sense or nonsense.”

Norton Juster

About This Quote

Source Book: The Phantom Tollbooth, Norton Juster, 1961

Words are chosen for meaning, not logical sense; meaning overrides coherence.

In simple terms: Meaning matters more than sense.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize intent over form.

Themes

language creativity meaning

Mood

playful thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • teaching
  • artistic expression

Key Concepts

semantic flexibility linguistic play

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is nonsense useful?
  • How to balance meaning and clarity?
A Different Perspective

Excessive nonsense can obscure communication.

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