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Good writing Quote by Richard Harding Davis

“The secret of good writing is to say an old thing in a new way or to say a new thing in an old way.” quote by Richard Harding Davis
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“The secret of good writing is to say an old thing in a new way or to say a new thing in an old way.”

Richard Harding Davis

About This Quote

Source Book: The Art of Writing, 1905

Writing should refresh familiar ideas or frame novel ideas with familiar language to engage readers.

In simple terms: Make old ideas feel new or new ideas feel familiar.

Key Takeaway

Reframe concepts creatively.

Themes

creativity communication literature

Mood

inspired thoughtful

Type

advice literary

When to use this quote

  • teaching
  • marketing
  • journalism
  • content creation

Key Concepts

Narrative technique innovation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance novelty with clarity?
  • When does rephrasing become gimmick?
A Different Perspective

May alienate audiences if over‑styled.

3.8 out of 5 (9 ratings)

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