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Difficult task Quote by William Hazlitt

“Any one may mouth out a passage with theatrical cadence or get upon stilts to tell his thoughts. But to write or speak with propriety and simplicity is a more difficult task.” quote by William Hazlitt
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““Any one may mouth out a passage with theatrical cadence or get upon stilts to tell his thoughts. But to write or speak with propriety and simplicity is a more difficult task.””

William Hazlitt

About This Quote

Source Essay: On the Sublime and Beautiful, 1820

Expressing ideas clearly and simply is harder than using ornate language or dramatic delivery.

In simple terms: Simplicity in communication is challenging.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize clarity over flourish.

Themes

communication writing clarity

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • teaching
  • public speaking
  • writing essays
  • media commentary

Key Concepts

rhetoric simplicity authenticity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you convey depth without embellishment?
  • When does simplicity hinder meaning?
A Different Perspective

Complex ideas may resist reduction without loss of nuance.

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