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Affection Quote by William Shakespeare

“Taffeta phrases, silken terms precise, Three-piled hyperboles, spruce affection, Figures pedantical--these summer flies Have blown me full of maggot ostentation.” quote by William Shakespeare
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“Taffeta phrases, silken terms precise, Three-piled hyperboles, spruce affection, Figures pedantical--these summer flies Have blown me full of maggot ostentation.”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: The Comedy of Errors, Act 2, 1594

Excessive ornate language can become pretentious, obscuring genuine meaning.

In simple terms: Over‑ornate language hides true meaning.

Key Takeaway

Prefer clear, sincere expression.

Themes

language style pretension

Mood

reflective critical

Type

literary analytical

When to use this quote

  • academic writing
  • public speaking
  • creative writing
  • editing

Key Concepts

rhetoric literary criticism communication

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does ornate language enhance a work?
  • How can you balance elegance and clarity?
A Different Perspective

Complex language can also enrich texture when used wisely.

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