Fine Quote by Samuel Johnson
“Read over your compositions, and when you meet a passage which you think is particularly fine, strike it out.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Rambler, 1750
Editing involves removing even well‑written passages to improve overall clarity and impact.
In simple terms: Delete good lines if they hinder the piece.
Edit ruthlessly for clarity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- manuscript polishing
- academic paper
- novel drafting
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Which passages do you love but need to cut?
- How do you know when a piece is polished enough?
Over‑editing can strip a work of its voice.