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Spoken words Quote by Ursula K. Le Guin

“But I liked the writing better. I could make it look beautiful. I could keep it. The spoken words just went out like the wind, and you always had to say them all over again to keep them alive. But the writing stayed, and you could learn to make it better. More beautiful.” quote by Ursula K. Le Guin
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““But I liked the writing better. I could make it look beautiful. I could keep it. The spoken words just went out like the wind, and you always had to say them all over again to keep them alive. But the writing stayed, and you could learn to make it better. More beautiful.””

Ursula K. Le Guin

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Art of Writing, Ursula K. Le Guin, 1995

Written words endure and can be refined, while spoken words are fleeting and often need repetition to stay alive.

In simple terms: Writing lasts, speech fades.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize writing for lasting impact.

Themes

creativity legacy expression

Mood

thoughtful instructive

Type

educational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • authoring books
  • journaling
  • public speaking
  • teaching

Key Concepts

writing vs. speaking artistic refinement memory preservation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance writing and speaking?
  • What stories need to be spoken, not just written?
A Different Perspective

Oral communication can be powerful in real‑time; neglecting it may limit connection.

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