Conception Quote by William Benton Clulow
“Language is properly the servant of thought, but not unfrequently becomes its master. The conceptions of a feeble writer are greatly modified by his style; a man of vigorous powers makes his style bend to his conceptions.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Art of Writing, 1845
Thought should lead style, yet often style dominates thought, shaping a writer's ideas.
In simple terms: Style can dominate thought.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate clear style that serves ideas.
Themes
writing
thought
style
communication
Mood
analytical
reflective
Type
literary
educational
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- editing
- academic publishing
- creative writing
Key Concepts
rhetoric
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- How does style influence perception? ideasWhat balance ensures ideas remain primary?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on style may obscure meaning.
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![“Take sex, for instance.' 'What do you want me to do with it?' 'Try to be serious for a moment. Take the sex life of our father.' [...] Even after a couple of brandies he felt extremely reluctant to discuss sex and his father. 'It's something I'd rather not think about,' he said. 'We all come into…” quote by John Mortimer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/280/john-mortimer-7362_conception_take-sex-for-instance-what-do-you-want-m_4946.jpg)
