Spade Quote by Peter B. Lockhart
““Therefore I call a spade a spade, and not a flat bladed instrument for the redistribution of granular matter.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Language of Science, 1998
A spade is called a spade, not a metaphor for redistribution, emphasizing plain language.
In simple terms: Call things by their true names.
Key Takeaway
Use clear, literal terms.
Themes
language
clarity
metaphor
science
Mood
analytical
neutral
Type
explanatory
philosophical
When to use this quote
- technical writing
- policy drafting
- public speeches
Key Concepts
semantic precision
communication theory
Questions to Reflect On
- When is metaphor useful?
- How does plain language affect persuasion?
A Different Perspective
Literal language may miss nuanced meanings.
![“Cecily. This is no time for wearing the shallow mask of manners. When I see a spade I call it a spade. Gwendolen. [Satirically.] I am glad to say that I have never seen a spade. It is obvious that our social spheres have been widely different.” quote by Oscar Wilde](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1e7/oscar-wilde-16_different_cecily-this-is-no-time-for-wearing-the-s_1461245.jpg)
