Attention Quote by Thornton Wilder
“Many great writers have been extraordinarily awkward in daily exchange, but the greatest give the impression that their style was nursed by the closest attention to colloquial speech.”
About This Quote
Great writers often seem socially clumsy, yet their prose feels natural because they meticulously study everyday language.
In simple terms: Skillful writing mimics ordinary speech.
Key Takeaway
Observe daily speech to craft authentic prose.
Themes
authenticity
observation
communication
craftsmanship
literary style
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
observational
advice
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- editing drafts
- teaching creative writing
- language research
- speech coaching
Key Concepts
colloquial speech
authorial voice
social awkwardness
Practical Applications
- improving narrative realism
- enhancing dialogue in scripts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does listening to real conversations improve your writing?
- What aspects of everyday speech can be refined for literary effect?
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