Business Quote by Stephen King
““Two pages of the passive voice—just about any business document ever written, in other words, not to mention reams of bad fiction—make me want to scream. It’s weak, it’s circuitous, and it’s frequently tortuous, as well. How about this: My first kiss will always be recalled by me as how my romance with Shayna was begun. Oh, man—who farted, right? A simpler way to express this idea—sweeter and more forceful, as well—might be this: My romance with Shayna began with our first kiss. I’ll never forget it. I’m not in love with this because it uses with twice in four words, but at least we’re out of that awful passive voice.””
About This Quote
Source Book: On Writing, Stephen King, 2000
The passive voice is criticized for being weak and indirect; active voice makes writing clearer and more engaging.
In simple terms: Passive voice is weak; active voice is clear.
Key Takeaway
Prefer active voice for stronger writing.
Themes
writing
clarity
voice
style
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
educational
reflective
When to use this quote
- business reports
- fiction writing
- academic papers
Key Concepts
linguistics
communication theory
Questions to Reflect On
- When does passive voice serve a purpose?
- How can you balance clarity with tone?
A Different Perspective
Active voice can sound harsh if overused.
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![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)