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Absurd Quote by Paul Banks

“I had this perverse gravitation towards using a terrible cliché sandwiched in between absurd non-clichés because I thought it gave the cliché a new resonance. It kills me when my lyrics are misquoted, but as long as people are quoting them right, I don't care what anybody has to say about them.” quote by Paul Banks
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“I had this perverse gravitation towards using a terrible cliché sandwiched in between absurd non-clichés because I thought it gave the cliché a new resonance. It kills me when my lyrics are misquoted, but as long as people are quoting them right, I don't care what anybody has to say about them.”

Paul Banks

About This Quote

Source Interview: The 2015 interview with Paul Banks, The Guardian, 2015

The speaker admits to using a cliché deliberately to create contrast, and cares more about correct attribution than criticism.

In simple terms: Using clichés for effect, caring about correct quoting.

Key Takeaway

Embrace intentional contrast, focus on accurate citation.

Themes

creativity language authenticity

Mood

reflective defensive

Type

literary personal

When to use this quote

  • songwriting
  • poetry
  • public speaking
  • social media
  • teaching

Key Concepts

literary technique self-awareness

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you value originality over correct attribution?
  • How does contrast affect meaning?
A Different Perspective

Clichés may dilute originality if overused.

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