Good writing Quote by Samuel R. Delany
““Good writing is clear. Talented writing is energetic. Good writing avoids errors. Talented writing makes things happen in the reader’s mind — vividly, forcefully — that good writing, which stops with clarity and logic, doesn’t.””
About This Quote
Clear writing conveys ideas; energetic writing immerses readers, making concepts vivid and impactful.
In simple terms: Clarity vs. energy in writing.
Key Takeaway
Balance clarity with vividness.
Themes
writing
communication
creativity
Mood
analytical
creative
Type
instructional
reflective
When to use this quote
- academic essays
- fiction
- marketing copy
Key Concepts
rhetoric
cognitive engagement
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you make clear writing more vivid?
- When is clarity more important than energy?
A Different Perspective
Energy may sacrifice precision; clarity can feel flat.
![“Though they have things in common, good writing and talented writing are not the same. […] If you start with a confused, unclear, and badly written story, and apply the rules of good writing to it, you can probably turn it into a simple, logical, clearly written story. It will still not be a good…” quote by Samuel R. Delany](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3c7/samuel-r-delany-2591_common-good_though-they-have-things-in-common-good-w_2057671.jpg)
![“David Mamet, Tim Kazurinsky, and Denise DeClue, who adapted [ About Last Night]. Between the three of them... I mean, it's always down to the writing. You're only as good as your writing.” quote by Rob Lowe](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2b2/rob-lowe-855_adapted_david-mamet-tim-kazurinsky-and-denise-de_30397.jpg)
![“Hypertext makes a virtue out of lack of organization, allowing ideas and thoughts to be juxtaposed at will. [...] The advent of hypertext is apt to make writing much more difficult, not easier. Good writing, that is.” quote by Donald A. Norman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/662/donald-a-norman-6862_advent_hypertext-makes-a-virtue-out-of-lack-of_51804.jpg)
