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Communication Quote by Ted Chiang

“My new language is taking shape. It is gestalt oriented, rendering it beautifully suited for thought, but impractical for writing or speech. It wouldn't be transcribed in the form of words arranged linearly, but as a giant ideogram, to be absorbed as a whole.” quote by Ted Chiang
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““My new language is taking shape. It is gestalt oriented, rendering it beautifully suited for thought, but impractical for writing or speech. It wouldn't be transcribed in the form of words arranged linearly, but as a giant ideogram, to be absorbed as a whole.””

Ted Chiang

About This Quote

Source Interview: “The Story of Your Life” author talk, 2015

A new language designed as a holistic ideogram, ideal for thought but not for linear writing or speech.

In simple terms: A thought‑oriented language that’s hard to write or speak.

Key Takeaway

Consider how visual thinking can reshape communication.

Themes

language creativity thought communication

Mood

curious introspective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • artistic expression
  • philosophical discourse
  • design thinking
  • visual learning

Key Concepts

holistic design ideogram cognitive ergonomics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How would you convey complex ideas without linear text?
  • What benefits might a visual language bring?
A Different Perspective

May be impractical for everyday use and lack standardization.

2.5 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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